The new stadium by Cox Architects represents a bold move forward for sports architecture in Victoria, and a visionary decision of the government to move forward with this design in support of the codes and the Victoria Major Events strategy. This will be a high quality design addition to a world class sports precinct, close to the city, the Yarra and parklands.
The ‘Melbourne Rectangular Stadium’ continues the strong architectural lineage of the precinct evidenced since 1956 by the Myer Music Bowl, Olympic Pool Complex, Rod Laver Arena and the MCG. The project also represents a complete integration between architecture and engineering – every element of the design has a purpose and has been optimized for its specific application. The sculptural qualities of the design are a result of function and structure.
The stadium has been designed with a unique and dynamic form that is innovative and memorable – a first for Melbourne and the world. At the heart of the design is the bioframe, a lightweight steel design based on the inherent structural efficiencies of the dome and uses 50% less steel than a typical cantilever roof structure. This structure is then skinned in a triangular panelised facade that can be made up with a combination of glass, metal and louvres, as well as potential for photovoltaic cells. Together the bioframe and the skin form a highly sculptural, non-industrial kind of building; a new image for a stadium that moves away from industrial aesthetic to sculptural design.
