The Soccer Stadium to End All Soccer Stadiums

The recent announcement that the Persian Gulf nation of Qatar will host the 2022 World Cup has caused this tiny Arab country to become an architect's wet dream, as dozens of fantastical designs for the World Cup stadium seem to push the limits of the imagination.

One of the main concerns surrounding the logistics of the World Cup was how this country of 115-degree temperatures would accommodate hundreds of thousands of soccer fans.

According to GOOD, "all of the stadiums will utilize the region's solar energy through solar panels which will help keep temperatures cool. Energy will also be collected from the 12 stadiums when they're not in use, and will be stored for later use." The ultimate goal is to make the 2022 World Cup completely carbon-neutral, piggybacking on efforts to make the 2012 London Olympics the "greenest games ever". This is no easy feat given the lack of water, transportation, and energy infrastructure in Qatar in place to handle crowds large enough to fill multiple stadiums.

Here's a look at each of the designs and some of their unique features:

Qatar plans to host the opening and closing matches for the 2022 World Cup in the Lusail Iconic Stadium (in the city of Lusail), which boasts a seating capacity of 86, 250.

Doha Port Stadium will be on an artificial peninsula in the Gulf and will have water running over its outer surface, aiding in the cooling process. 

Al-Gharafa Stadium is one of three stadiums set for remodeling in Qatar. Colorful ribbons will decorate the outer walls, symbolizing the various nations to qualify for the 2022 World Cup Games.

With its flexible roof and seashell shape, Al-Khor Stadium will offer spectators a wonderful view of the Gulf—right from their seats.

Umm Slal Stadium's design is a modern interpretation of traditional Arab forts.

Located in one of Qatar's oldest cities, Al-Wakrah Stadium takes inspiration from the city's local heritage in fishing and pearl diving.

The Al-Shamal Stadium is modeled after a "dhow" fishing boat commonly used in the Gulf.

 Al-Rayyan Stadium is one of Qatar's current stadiums and features a "media membrane" on the outside walls where updates and news on current matches are projected.

Inspired from traditional Arab tents, Sports City Stadium has plenty of retractable seating, making it ideal for future sporting events and concerts.

The Qatar University Stadium will feature a facade with traditional Arabic geometric patterns. After the World Cup games, the stadium's seating capacity will be downsized for use by university student athletes.

Via: GOOD