Qatar’s upcoming stadiums in Al Wakrah and Al Khor have been singled out as having some of the world’s “craziest” roofs.
The under-construction World Cup venues were recently shortlisted by US-based tech publication Wired.
Al Wakrah Stadium was designed by the late Zaha Hadid, who drew inspiration from the dhow boats that Qataris traditionally used for pearl diving.
Meanwhile, Al Khor Al Bayt’s design mirrors Bedouin tents to symbolize Qatari hospitality.
That stadium will have a retractable roof that can close in 20 minutes.
Both venues are expected to be completed in late 2018.
Other stadiums
Also on Wired’s shortlist was the Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta, which will open next year. Eight petals allow light inside and the roof can open like a camera aperture in less than eight minutes.
Meanwhile, the VTB Arena Park in Moscow drew attention because it has two stadiums under one polycarbonate-clad roof inspired by a Faberge egg.
And the AAMI Park in Melbourne was also named for having a series of geodesic domes whose structure is free from pillars, walls and other supports.
In a statement, Wired said:
“It appears inclement weather will no longer stop us from enjoying our beloved sports. Neither will our imagination, as retractable, fabric, plastic, and other innovative and audaciously designed roofs gain traction around the world.
The biggest obstacle is cost, but that is retracting too, as designers use lighter, cheaper, more flexible materials. And as the technology and knowledge to build these structures proliferates, stadium roofs are becoming more and more fantastical. Because who doesn’t want a Fabergé egg over their head?”
Thoughts?