La Défense Stadium in Paris

Originally designed as a rugby stadium, this structure evolved during the planning process into a theater, uniquely integrating 31,000 square meters of office space into its architectural design. Strategically located in the city center, it is surrounded by streets on all sides and sits at the main axis between La Défense and Nanterre, offering a spectacular view of the surrounding skyscrapers. The building’s façade presents a gentle horizontal form, thanks to its shell made of glass and aluminum, which shimmers under the sunlight, elegantly curving around the towering white concrete steps.

This surface softness starkly contrasts with the expansive interior space, highlighted by a breathtaking 40-meter-high vaulted ceiling. When functioning as a stadium, the La Défense Arena accommodates 30,400 seats, serving as the home ground for the Racing 92 rugby team. This capacity makes it the largest indoor venue in Europe and the second largest indoor stadium in the world. Beyond its size, the arena is renowned for its unique design, featuring a fixed roof and a multifunctional floor with artificial turf that can be transformed into a concert hall within 11 hours.

Additionally, the arena is equipped with meticulously designed sightlines and a specialized acoustic system, complemented by a massive 1,400-square-meter screen. The roof structure is supported by four giant beams, spanning an impressive 150 meters by 110 meters. At night, the façade, clad in glass and aluminum, brings a dynamic array of colors to the cityscape.