GRAFT won a Europe-wide architectural competition to renovate the ice rink with its proposal for a unique roof construction. There was a need to transform the facility into a multi-functional arena for year-round use that can host not only sports but also cultural events regardless of the weather. The existing stone terraces and listed timber umpire’s tower had to be retained and incorporated into the new design. Technical services, administration, changing rooms and restaurant facilities were to be added in two additional buildings as part of the arena complex.
GRAFT was founded in 1998 in Los Angeles, California by Lars Krückeberg, Wolfram Putz, and Thomas Willemeit and operates internationally in the fields of urban development, architecture, and design. The hybrid office with further locations in Berlin and Shanghai is characterized by its innovative and interdisciplinary design methods and futuristic design language.