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Skating at top level consists of two elements: purity and dynamics. The strengths of the skater only come into their own when they are executed in the most pure movement. The position of the skate on the ice, the mark, the slide, each skater looks for the line that provides their dynamics with the ideal result: maximum speed. These two elements form the inspiration for our design of Thialf. They appear in the functional design where the groundbreaking ice experience is the focus, in the logistics by separating public streams at the entrance and the expansion of the tunnel for the professionals, as well as in the setup of facilities that support world-class performances and where the top sport training facilities and the lab take a prominent position (inspiring each other through interactions and viewing relationships).
The elements of purity and dynamics are already visible outside of Thialf in the main area of the building. The dynamics of entering are expressed in the design of the entrance, together with the landscape of stairs. Two “arms” of glass extend themselves outside in order to welcome the stream of visitors. The purity of the ice rink is reinforced by the perfect white and continuous shape of the competitive arena. The experience of purity and dynamics is experienced further through the pattern, inspired by ice crystals, on the façade of the skating rink.
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