Creating a vision from the ground up.
Challenge
At the beginning of 2015, Thialf, together with Architects ZJA, began the immense task of rebuilding their world famous (speed) ice skating stadium. The existing stadium is steeped in tradition and record breaking sport and this was the chance to bring these solid foundations into the modern world with new and environmentally conscious technologies, wrapped in a stunning three storey land mark stadium. DAY was approached to create the overall vision and interior design for the spaces and experiences within the stadium.
Solution
Athletes have to focus on presentation, passion, knowledge and emotion alongside the public that feels the magic and history to want to challenge themselves. Recreation and performance are as one and DAY developed the concept of FOCUS as the main theme for this extensive project.
For each area of the stadium; the rink, central meeting points, hospitality, public spaces etc., DAY created different atmospheres in the form of an in depth document containing look & feel mood boards, covering physical structures, lighting, colours, materialisation and general zoning. This formed the design principles on which the complete interior design process was built upon and provided detailed information with visual references that were briefed to constructors, as well as, other agencies and partners.
The track itself is naturally the main focal point, intensified with a lighting and colour plan that gradiates from light in the middle to dark on the edges drawing the spectator’s eye to the action on the track. The glass wall around the track is a dominant factor of the building, making a distinctive and stunning canvas on which DAY used sections of different coloured blue foils to link it as one with the track. Information about skating performances, words and phrases used only in skating and encouraging quotes from athletes bring the membrane to life as spectators and visitors walk around.
A distinctive signage system with references to the cut out shapes in the membrane was also developed by DAY for use throughout the stadium. Specially designed icons and introducing new fonts, both with a sporty and fresh look, perfectly fits the new Thialf!
Result
DAY has evolved this project from initial concept through to final design with interior design, graphic design of the membrane, signage and interior branding. The stadium now has a unique personality working alongside the impressive new building. DAY is thrilled to continue working on the realisation of this immense project.