MUNICH ARENA to set a new benchmark in Europe
The MUNICH ARENA planned near Munich International Airport was designed by Populous, one of the leading global architecture firms. The building is intended to set a new benchmark in the European live entertainment sector.
The modern, multifunctional venue in the north of Munich, close to Munich International Airport, is designed for first-class live events and will offer space for around 20,000 fans. The long-term strategic partnership with Live Nation is expected to generate new economic impetus for the entire region. According to a new economic impact study by the consulting firm Deloitte, a gross value added of 391 million euros (442m USD / 330m GBP) will already flow into the local economy during the construction phase. After its opening, the arena is expected to generate an annual value of 354 million euros (401m USD / 298m GBP) for the city and region.
The design team's aim was to develop a sustainable, multifunctional venue that redefines the entire visitor experience. The brief also included the development of a unique, iconic design that pays homage to Bavarian heritage and culture to create a venue with a distinctive and instantly recognisable form.
Populous, an architectural firm specialising in stadiums and arenas with a branch in Germany, which has designed projects such as the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester and the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, has designed a diamond-shaped exoskeleton as part of the competition design. This echoes the diamond-like shapes of the Bavarian flag and gives the venue a striking appearance. For this project, Populous worked together with the general planner HENN from Munich and the landscape architects Latz+Partner from Freising.
The design is characterised by a “unique and new approach” to the layout of the bowl inside the venue, creating an exceptional experience for visitors. Seating is arranged in a horseshoe shape, centred on the multi-functional stage, giving spectators a clear view of the action. The combination of steeply raked seating, state-of-the-art technology and innovative acoustic design is supposed to ensure a first-class concert experience and define a new benchmark in Europe.
The arena is aiming for DGNB Gold certification for the first time in Germany, which would make Munich Arena the first concert arena to receive such a high accolade. This is made possible by life cycle-based planning, which provides for a reduction in the carbon footprint during construction and sustainable strategies for building operation. Sustainability is understood holistically - not only in terms of ecological aspects, but also as an economic and social mission. In addition to the use of resource-conserving materials and energy-efficient technologies, the focus is therefore also on long-term economic viability and integration into the region. In close cooperation with the German Sustainable Building Council, all measures are monitored and made measurable from the outset. The installation of several thousand PV/solar panels on the roof of the arena, car park and hotel in combination with the existing geothermal and district heating potential ensures a self-sufficient energy supply.
The interior fit-out was designed with the ever-increasing demands of artists in terms of technology, stage shows and production in mind. A large number of details were implemented that are specifically tailored to the needs of artists, organisers and visitors in order to create incomparable experiences for concert and live event visitors. At the same time, it was a central concern to tangibly integrate the local Munich and Bavarian identity – for a state-of-the-art venue that does not appear interchangeable but is firmly rooted in its region.
The arena will be located at the western end of the LabCampus, the technology, education and innovation centre at Munich Airport. In the middle of a large green area, it is planned to form the western cornerstone of the masterplan for Munich Airport. Both the location and the design of the building's façade reflect this special role. The building is open to the east and welcomes spectators on two levels. To the west, it gradually closes in, thus forming the final element of the further development.
Lorenz Schmid, Managing Director of the München Arena, explains: “I and my team are working together to ensure the continued success of the München Arena. Our aim is to offer the region and its inhabitants an outstanding venue for unforgettable live experiences that has both national and international appeal and acts as a catalyst for culture, business and tourism.”
Declan Sharkey, Senior Principal and Global Director at Populous, said: “We are very proud to be working on the Munich Arena project, combining the local approach of our team in Germany with the resources and expertise of our teams around the world in arena design. Our aim was to create a unique venue that will be an icon for live events and experiences in Bavaria and beyond.” (stadiawold, 22.05.2025)
