CONCEPT
Bilbao Arena and the Miribilla Sports Centre form a major public sports infrastructure integrated into the Miribilla neighbourhood of Bilbao, developed on land formerly occupied by iron mines and embedded within a large urban park. The project responds to a particularly complex topography, with an approximate 46-metre height difference across a 200-metre plot, requiring a careful architectural response capable of integrating landscape, circulation and programmatic requirements.
The complex is organised into two complementary volumes, conceptually inspired by the natural landscape of the site. The main arena is conceived as a “tree-like” structure, where arborescent steel columns support the metal façade and a permeable envelope of lacquered steel panels conceals technical installations while allowing natural ventilation.
Below it, the community sports centre is designed as a “rock-like” volume, embedded into the slope and clad with textured precast concrete panels coloured in tones reminiscent of the grey limestone geology of the surrounding terrain. Inside this “hollow rock,” the program unfolds vertically in a cascade — connecting parking areas, gyms and swimming pools while maintaining visual continuity between spaces.
The arena accommodates more than 10,000 spectators for basketball games and major events, serving as the home venue of Bilbao Basket while also hosting concerts and public events. The adjoining sports centre provides facilities such as swimming pools, fitness areas and training spaces designed primarily for the residents of the neighbourhood, combining elite sports infrastructure with everyday community use.
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
- ArchDaily – Building of the Year 2011
- RIBA Awards – EU Category (2012)
REFERENCES
https://www.idom.com/en/project/bilbao-arena-and-miribilla-sports-complex/
https://www.archdaily.com/183721/bilbao-arena-acxt
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bilbao_Arena
https://en.wikiarquitectura.com/building/bilbao-sports-arena/