Strasbourg presents world premiere: old aircraft are becoming stadium art!

Strasbourg presents world premiere: old aircraft are becoming stadium art!

Stade de la Meinau, Strasbourg, Frankreich - In the picturesque city of Strasbourg, France, the famous stadium renovation process of the Stade de la Meinau is promoted with a unique, environmentally friendly concept. On October 21, 2024, the Racing Club de Strasbourg Alsace presented a worldwide premiere: the south grandstand of the stadium, which is currently being renovated, receives Brise-Soleil-Paneele, made from recycled parts of old Airbus A340 aircraft. This innovative solution comes from the renowned architectural firms Populous and Rey de Crécy and could transform the stadium into an example of sustainable architecture.

primary goals of the renovation are the increase in capacity and improving the functionality of the stadium. The new Brise-Soleil panels cover an area of 4,050 m² and consist of 196 white steel fuselages of the A340 aircraft. This tailor -made construction should not only minimize the sun's rays, but at the same time enable wonderful views of the adjacent park and the surrounding waters. According to François Clément, the President of Populous France, the idea came into being during the Covid 19 pandemic, when numerous planes had to stay on the ground and the need to use resources became clear.

technical innovations and new design

Fuselage technology has so far been unspired in architecture and is viewed as a progressive step in the use of recycled materials in construction projects. The innovative use of these materials could initiate a discussion about the possible advantages and the need for recycling in the construction industry. The corrugated, white panels of the aircraft bushes give the new south stands an elegant and appealing aesthetics that corresponds to the self -image of the stadium as part of a green environment.

In addition to the facade, larger conversions are also planned. A modern atrium with five floors is planned, supplemented by new bars, reception rooms and special areas that serve as a "party decks" for the fans. These redesign should promote interaction among fans and create an inviting ambience. Pia Imbs, President of the Eurométropole of Strasbourg, emphasizes that this project is a prime example of social and ecological responsibility and is a first in the area of sustainable stadium renovation.

The entire renovation process, which is expected to be completed in August 2026, aims to preserve the existing atmosphere of the stadium and at the same time increase its size from 26,000 to 32,000 places. In the first phase, the focus is on the south grandstand before the work on the other stands continues. Furthermore, a "fan zone" is created, which will be without example in French stadiums and which should be open to the public during the week. The current renovation of the city stadium thus reflects the trend to integrate more ecological aspects into modern designs.

The background to these changes are in the article by Chroniques-architecture.com to read .