Kansas-based architect Populous has masterplanned a redesign of the home stadium of Portuguese football team Benfica, Lisbon’s Estádio da Luz, and its surrounding area.
Working with local architects Saraiva + Associados, the project involves adding a new façade to the stadium with an integrated LED “skin” able to act as a “beacon” for the venue, plus an attraction for non-sporting events. The façade will also be able to shade the concourses.
A new 6,800-sq-m fourth level will be added outside the seating bowl for club offices, hospitality, and commercial facilities.
The masterplan also adds a 10,000-capacity multi-purpose indoor arena, two smaller indoor sports venues for 2,500 and 1,500 spectators, a community swimming pool, a 500-person events space, an outdoor rooftop football pitch, running track and other commercial and residential spaces.
A new 100m x 40m fan plaza will be built in front of the stadium’s main entrance, with a design inspired by Lisbon’s civic squares. The fan area will be able to accommodate 10,000 people, featuring concert space, restaurants and shops. A statue of Portuguese footballer Eusébio will be moved to the plaza’s entrance.
Rui Costa, S.L. Benfica’s president, said: “This is an ambitious and strategic project, focused on our members, fans, and the continued growth of the club, which we intend to begin implementing immediately.
“Our aim is to enhance the stadium and wider masterplan facilities to support all sports and further strengthen Benfica’s position, both in Portugal and around the world, as the country’s leading sporting institution – with completion in time for the major international competitions that Portugal will host.”
Tom Jones, Populous’ project architect, said: “This masterplan is an example of how venue-anchored mixed-use developments can reinvigorate a whole district, and sets a new benchmark for how stadiums can serve as cultural and community beacons.
“Estádio da Luz will not just be a home for Benfica’s proud history, but a catalyst for its vibrant future.”
Jorge Betancor, Populous’ principal, said: “It will set a new benchmark in Portugal and at an exciting juncture in the country’s sporting development as it builds towards World Cup 2030.”
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