geometric facade wraps stadium by WTA design studio, reflecting traditional ilocano fabric

fabric drapes over wta design studio’s stadium in the philippines

WTA Design Studio presents the Ferdinand E. Marcos Stadium in Laoag City, Philippines, to redefine the concept of a public stadium. Located at the heart of the city, the 12,000-seat facility aims to create an accessible space for everyone, accommodating sports and recreation. Built with local materials and labor, the stadium reflects the practical and modest approach characteristic of Ilocano culture. Its PVC roofing sheets echo the corrugated materials common in local homes, and its design is inspired by the Ilocano Abel fabric, a weaving tradition native to the people of Northern Luzon, symbolizing cultural continuity. The geometric patterns of the stadium’s facade honor local craftsmanship and create a familiar, human scale within the urban fabric.

all images courtesy of WTA Design Studio

Ferdinand E. Marcos Stadium doubles as a public park

WTA Design Studio opens the southern facade towards the neighboring Rizal Park, joining the stadium with the urban landscape and expanding public space by 200%. The open layout allows free access without the need for tickets or barriers, welcoming all members of the community regardless of their economic background. The Manila-based architects prioritize public use, reinforcing the idea that spaces funded by the people should serve the people without restrictions. The structure’s natural ventilation and ample shade encourage everyday use by residents, offering a flexible, barrier-free environment for events and leisure.

The Ferdinand E. Marcos Stadium is part of a larger 12-hectare sports complex, which includes facilities such as the INSPIRE sports training center, an aquatics center, and the Centennial Arena. Together, these elements form a vital part of Ilocos Norte’s sports tourism initiative, positioning the stadium as a key hub for local and regional activities.

WTA Design Studio presents the Ferdinand E. Marcos Stadium in Laoag City, Philippines

redefining the concept of a public stadium

located at the heart of the city

the 12,000-seat facility aims to create an accessible space for everyone

merging sports and recreation with community life

built with local materials and labor

the stadium reflects the practical and modest approach characteristic of Ilocano culture

1/20

the weaving tradition native to the people of Northern Luzon symbolizes cultural continuity

geometric patterns of the stadium’s facade honor local craftsmanship

creating a familiar, human scale within the urban fabric

WTA Design Studio opens the southern facade towards the neighboring Rizal Park

joining the stadium with the urban landscape

expanding public space by 200%

the open layout allows free access without the need for tickets or barriers

welcoming all members of the community regardless of their economic background

the Manila-based architects prioritize public use

reinforcing the idea that spaces funded by the people should serve them without restrictions

the structure’s natural ventilation and ample shade encourage everyday use

offering a flexible, barrier-free environment for events and leisure

the INSPIRE sports training center, an aquatics center, and the Centennial Arena are part of the complex

together, these elements form a vital part of Ilocos Norte’s sports tourism initiative

positioning the stadium as a key hub for local and regional activities

Ferdinand E. Marcos Stadium doubles as a public park

natural ventilation flows through the open stadium

WTA Design Studio integrates Ilocano heritage with modern architectural techniques

doubling public open space and enhancing community access

locally sourced materials and craftsmanship define the stadium’s structure

project info:

name: Ferdinand E. Marcos Stadium
architect: WTA Design Studio | @wtadesignstudio
design team: William Ti, Jr., Job Balayan, Thea Rodriguez, Emmanuel Yadao, Joe Florendo
location: Laoag City, Philippines

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edited by: thomai tsimpou | designboom