Dezeen · Creativity & design

Red Facade "Evoking a Hedgehog" Wraps Ice Hockey Arena by Chybik + Kristof

Chybik + Kristof has completed the Jihlava Municipal Arena in the Czech Republic, a 5,650-seat venue designed for ice hockey and to serve as a cultural hub.

The arena features a distinctive bright red, zigzagging aluminum facade, intended to create a strong civic identity. The color references the city's heraldry and the hockey team's colors, while the zigzags are likened to the spines of a hedgehog, a city symbol.

The design aims to be approachable and welcoming, meeting complex technical demands. Its angular facade and crown-like top provide a strong identity, connecting to the city's skyline with a contemporary character.

Chybik + Kristof won a competition to design the arena, replacing an old ice rink and aiming for better integration with the city center. The venue is adaptable for concerts, conferences, and sports, with retractable stands increasing capacity.

The arena is positioned as a public building first, an event venue second, and is designed as an extension of the city rather than a standalone object. Public spaces outside facilitate seamless movement between nearby buildings.

Inside, a wheelchair-accessible circulation space wraps around the seating. Custom folding seats serve as acoustic treatment, and triangular light fixtures and light installations add to the interior design.

A unique typeface and visuals support wayfinding, nodding to the zigzagging facade. Alongside the arena, Chybik + Kristof designed auxiliary buildings, including a silver cube containing a fan shop, restaurant, hotel, gym, and sports hall.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.