"The latest construction in Fukushima showcases a timber-based stadium, embodying the town's journey towards recuperation."
Japan is set to unveil its first circular timber stadium in Fukushima, a project that aims to be a symbol of hope and recovery for a region affected by the 2011 earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear disaster.
The stadium, designed by Japanese architecture studio Vuild, will be the home of Fukushima United FC. The design of the stadium draws inspiration from the Shikinen Sengu tradition, where Japan's Ise Grand Shrine is rebuilt every 20 years, signifying renewal and continuity.
The stadium stands 16 meters tall and has two tiers with 5,000 seats. The seating area is low-level and bowl-shaped, providing an intimate atmosphere for spectators. The roofscape of the stadium references the steep thatched roofs of Ōuchi-juku, a historic post town in Fukushima Prefecture. The undulating roof provides shade in summer and shelter from winter winds.
The stadium's exterior features a timber design, a testament to Japan's rich woodworking tradition. Each section covers less than 3,000 square meters, exempting the structure from being classified as a fireproof building due to the extensive use of laminated timber.
Sustainability is at the heart of the stadium's design. Vuild stated that the stadium aims to minimize energy consumption and achieve energy self-sufficiency by storing on-site generated renewable power. Energy storage systems are designed to help the stadium meet the stringent requirements of the Living Building Challenge.
These energy-saving measures are complemented by a rainwater collection system, snow storage for summer cooling, and renewable power generation. The Fukushima project incorporates reforestation programs, woodworking classes, and participatory construction to ensure the regeneration of skills and resources.
The stadium's construction will involve community participation, with local residents and club members assisting in assembling the structure. This approach not only fosters a sense of ownership but also contributes to the regeneration of the region.
The architectural group "Suppose Design Office" designed Japan's first round wooden stadium in Fukushima and collaborated with Sports X. The stadium's design is intended to continuously renew skills, resources, and community knowledge, similar to the Shikinen Sengu tradition.
In the upper floors, VIP lounges, skyboxes, and media spaces will occupy the stadium, providing comfortable spaces for spectators and media personnel alike. Ground-level facilities will include locker rooms, player areas, and storage.
The Fukushima stadium is more than just a sports venue; it's a testament to the resilience and determination of the region, a symbol of hope, and a beacon of sustainable design. It's a project that encapsulates the spirit of renewal and continuity, embodying the Shikinen Sengu tradition in a modern, circular timber stadium.
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