The Oval Speed Skating Arena will be built for the Torino 2006 Olympic Games next to the Lingotto, the first FIAT factory in Turin, reconverted into a multifunctional space.
The main concepts which characterise the design are three: simplicity, clarity and functionality.
As for simplicity, the design aims at reinterpreting the language of the adjacent Lingotto building by Mattè Trucco and of Renzo Pianos reconversion; the building has a very simple and regular layout except the irregularity of three big pods.
As for clarity, the pods identify three precise functions during the Olympic use (accesses and service for VIPS and Olympic family, press, organisations staff) and in the post-Olympic use (service for a possible subdivision of the building into three areas).
As for functionality, the main objective of the design is to realise a building which can assure high agonistic performances during the Olympics and a versatile post-Olympic use as an exhibitions seat.
The functional design is very simple: a building of 215 x 115 m with a maximum capacity of about 8300 spectators, one single rectangular main hall, the accesses to the main services on the east, the services pods on the west, two large façades on the south and north sides.
During the Olympics the three pods will be used for VIPs, Olympic family, press and management. After the Olympics two pods will be transformed into meeting rooms and the first floor will become a terrace overlooking the main hall that presents a large versatile space with a rich structure; a large glazed and partially curved wall on the north side visually connects the building to the Lingotto.
The roof has an very simple geometric shape, its asymmetric shape reflects the need to reduce the volume in relation to the stands as much as possible; the two fins are the functional consequence of the partitioning of the inside.
