spanish studio fenwick iribarren architects celebrates the completion of its stadium 974 in doha, qatar ahead of the FIFA 2022 world cup. the ambitious project comprises a vibrant assemblage of shipping containers and a modular steel structure. the 40,000-seat stadium, previously known as ras abu aboud, is the first in FIFA world cup history designed to be fully demountable.

see designboom’s previous coverage of the project here upon its announcement in 2017.

images courtesy of qatar’s supreme committee for delivery and legacy

with its stadium 974 in qatar, fenwick iribarren architects (see more) employs reused shipping containers to achieve a swift, cost-efficient construction. the spanish studio partners with structural engineers schlaich bergermann partner and engineering consultancy hilson moran. the massive modular structure lends a memorable atmosphere, for fans and players alike. seven matches will be played at stadium 974 during qatar 2022 world cup. 

while stadium 974 takes its name from the number of shipping containers used in its construction, the number is also the country’s international dialing code. many of the shipping containers were used to transport materials to the stadium’s construction site. they also celebrate the maritime and industrial heritage of the port city.

the concept of sustainability is at the very core of stadium 974. its seaside location offers a natural cool breeze to lighten the load on the stadium’s cooling systems. the construction model of this stadium stands it in good stead as it aims for a 4-star global sustainability assessment system (GSAS) certification.

the design uses prefabricated and modular elements. this approach reduced the waste generated during production of stadium components and the waste created on site during construction. the use of modular elements also reduced the venue’s construction duration.

mohammed al mulla, stadium 974’s precinct director, comments: ‘the stadium is situated near doha port, hamad international airport and doha airport. it will be the first stadium fans see when they arrive in qatar. in more ways than one, it can be regarded as a gateway to the country.

‘our original idea was actually inspired by a lego set and we eventually decided to use shipping containers and recycled steel for the stadium. these elements can both be recycled after the tournament if necessary.’

structural engineers: schlaich bergermann partner

photography: courtesy of qatar’s supreme committee for delivery and legacy

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