Chicago 2016 Olympics Bid (2008)

Project Data
 
Site Area:   various sites
Location:   Chicago, USA
Function:   Olympic Sports Venues
Features:   Olympic Stadium, Aquatics Center, further venues designed as temporary structures
Scope:   Architectural Concept, Bidding Video presented at IOC
Status:   Planning
 
Credit: BenWood Studio Shanghai
 
 
Project Summary
 
The Chicago 2016 Summer Olympic Bid is focused around a sustainable master plan and green, mostly temporary venues as originally developed by Ben Wood Studio Shanghai in 2006/2007.
Temporary venues include the Olympic Stadium situated in one of Chicago’s oldest parks and further major facilities like the Olympic Aquatic Centre as well as the Water Polo and Cycling venues.

Complementing the Stadium, the Aquatic Centre occupies the north-western corner of Washington Park. The design focuses on modular components and recyclability of the lightweight structure as well as membrane materials. The overall impression of the swimming hall is open, sunlit and provides views for all visitors towards the old tall trees of the park.

Developing a general “look and feel” strategy for the Olympic Venues, the Aquatic Centre – as well as the Water Polo and Cycling venue – is based on the theme of the typical American porch. The “front porch” for the Aquatics Centre is an enormous 200m long, wide deck facing the Olympic Stadium and Washington Park’s main open lawn. This is where people can come together, eat and meet during the Games in a uniquely American way, making the best of Chicago’s legendary summers.