JKMM completes Finland’s first hybrid football stadium
JKMM Architects unveiling of of finland first hybrid football stadiumA much-awaited addition to the Tammela district of Tampere. Designed in collaboration with the City of Tampere and Pohjola Rakens, the architectural team envisioned the stadium as a miniature city, combining sports facilities with residential, retail and public facilities. The 13,500-square-metre venue can seat 8,000 spectators and meets UEFA Category 4 standards, hosting elite matches such as the Europa League and national team games, while also accommodating up to 15,000 attendees for concerts and public events. Does.
Brick-clad in residential The buildings make the stadium higher courtyards Located between the structures. The stands rise directly from the compact pitch, providing unobstructed views from every seat. glass-Walled entrances protect the grounds from wind while maintaining visual connectivity with the neighbourhood. a dramatic Roof Arching from east to west, its suspended steel canopies blend with the residential rooftops.
Images by tuomas uushimoCourtesy JKMM Architects, unless otherwise stated
Tammela Stadium consists of residential and commercial buildings
The Tammela Stadium replaces the original Tammela football pitch, a landmark dating back to the 1930s. Rather than being relocated, the new structure densifies the site while respecting its heritage. Helsinki based JKMM Architects’ competition-winning design, Hattutempu (Hat Trick), integrates the stadium with a hybrid block spanning approximately 50,000 square metres. The development consists of five residential buildings, a commercial center and parking facilities, woven into the urban fabric of the district.
The apartments in the residential buildings offer diverse layouts, with upper levels offering views of the grounds or the surrounding city. Public spaces surround the pitch, while a light art installation by artists Tommy Grönlund and Petteri Nisunen enlivens the underside of the roof, evoking the energy of football with dynamic, changing patterns.
Tectonic Architecture and Innovative Engineering.
JKMM Architects unveils Finland’s first hybrid football stadium
Previous stadium structures rebuilt
At the heart of Tampere’s urban renewal goals, JKMM Architects prioritize sustainability. Existing structures from the old stadium were repurposed for other city grounds, reducing waste. The central location encourages the use of public transport, while the block is connected to the district heating and cooling network. Light-colored roofing materials reduce urban heat and air pollution, while the compact hybrid design maximizes land use.
The design of Tammela Stadium is defined by its tectonic approach, where architectural and structural elements meet. Steel composite pillars, reinforced concrete beams and suspended canopy structures ensure a strong yet sophisticated look. The roof, supported by tension cables and steel pylons, bends to take the load of snow and seasonal changes.
Lightweight materials, including perforated steel and glass, define the facade, while the stadium’s green artificial turf takes center stage as a symbol of Finnish football culture. Entrances for players, press, VIPs and spectators are located for optimal flow, while there is a dedicated northeast entrance for supporters of the visiting team. Parking and service areas are hidden in the basement, leaving an active streetscape above. The stadium offers year-round functionality, serving local clubs such as Ilves Tampere and hosting diverse events. Ground level commercial space adds vibrancy to the Tammela area, further strengthening its role as a community hub.
The architectural team envisioned the stadium as a miniature city.
Combining sports facilities with residential, retail and public facilities
The 13,500 square meter stadium can seat 8,000 spectators and meets UEFA Category 4 standards
The Tammela Stadium accommodates up to 15,000 attendees for concerts and public events Image by Hannu Ritki
The stadium replaced the original Tammela football pitch. Image by Hannu Ritki