mecanoo + metaform's sunken sports complex in luxembourg will include timber velodrome

mecanoo has teamed up with metaform architects to design a major new sports and leisure facility in luxembourg. the planned site is located on the outskirts of mondorf-les-bains, a town in the south-east of the country known for its thermal baths. the facilities combine the new national velodrome with an aquatic center, sports hall, and climbing wall — creating a venue capable of hosting national and international cycling events, while simultaneously serving the local community on a day-to-day basis.

all images courtesy of mecanoo

mecanoo and metaform’s compact design is a result of the prescribed re-naturalization of the sloping agricultural site, among other physical restrictions, and a limited budget. sunken into the topography, the pools and sports hall are topped with sloping green roofs that blend the building into the landscape. this gives the desired prominence to the velodrome as a recognizable landmark that is visible from the neighboring highway.

the venue is capable of hosting national and international cycling events

the internal layout connects the facilities through a grand foyer while maintaining clear circulation routes for both athletes and spectators. the velodrome and sports halls are accessed through changing rooms located on the ground floor. a large open staircase connects the foyer above with the entrance, creating a public connection with the aquatic center and spectator areas of the velodrome and sports hall.

the structure of the building remains proudly on display

the velodrome appears as a floating volume with a transparent band separating the solid volume of the roof from the landscape. wood and concrete finishes create a neutral, durable, and warm backdrop, while strategically placed skylights and glazed façades optimize natural daylight and frame views of the landscape. green roofs, passive solar design, and photovoltaic rooftop panels contribute to the building’s sustainable approach.

the scheme includes a multi-purpose sports hall

the design also includes areas for spectators

the aquatic center is sunken into the landscape

the velodrome appears in the rolling landscape as a floating volume

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project info:

size: 24,500 sqm
status: competition
project design: 2018
location: mondorf-les-bains, luxembourg

client: municipality of mondorf-les-bains, luxembourg ministry of sports
design team: mecanoo and metaform architects

program: velodrome, aquatic center with indoor and outdoor facilities, 2 cafés, multi-sports hall, climbing wall, offices for the luxembourgish cycling federation (FSCL), outdoor parking

awards: 1st place international design competition

overall usable area: 22,000 sqm
vélodrome area: 9,000 sqm
multi-sports hall: 2,200 sqm
aqua center area: 3,200 sqm
overall budget: €65 million
consultants and subcontractors: pohl architekten, latz + partner, werner sobek, transsolar