Renewing the Membrane Roof of Hamburg’s Volksparkstadion

Description

The existing roof, completed in 2000, is based on a spoke-wheel system supported by 40 masts. Between the outer compression ring and the inner tension ring a layer of lower radial cables is spanning. For downward-acting loads, an additional layer of upper radial cables spans from the inner tension ring to the top of the masts. The upper and lower radial cables are connected via vertical hanger cables. The 37.400m² membrane cladding is prestressed between the lower radial cables. To shape the membrane’s double-curved surface geometry, steel tube arches span tangentially between the lower radial cables. The existing structural concept served as the basis for modernisation, ensuring that the building’s global behaviour and geometry were preserved while performance parameters were enhanced to align with current requirements.
Due to building permission requirements, the stadium roof structure had to be verified according to the latest standards applicable in Hamburg. Verification according to DIN EN 1991-1-3/NA prescribes a global design snow load of 1.34kN/m² for Hamburg and an exceptional snow load of 2.04kN/m² for the North German lowlands. These loads are significantly higher than those specified in the applicable Hamburg standards from 1999. To comply with these provisions, the membrane strength was increased and selected components of the primary structure were locally reinforced, without altering the spoke-wheel behaviour or the architectural character of the roof.
With the updated requirements defined and the necessary strengthening measures in place, the membrane replacement took place between August and December 2023 during ongoing matches and events. The installation was carefully sequenced to keep the cable system stable while minimizing open roof areas and ensuring that the venue’s event schedule remained uninterrupted. After installation, on-site measurements verified the required prestress and geometric fit.
The new PVC-coated polyester membrane is dimensioned to the higher design actions and specified safety levels. The prestress ensures the membrane maintains its double curvature, provides reliable drainage and interacts smoothly with the arch line.
Local reinforcements were introduced at terminations, penetrations and edge zones of the membrane cladding. Fabrication and testing followed the relevant standards as specified by sbp and have been validated by an independent third party.
In parallel with the structural works, the technical systems in the roof were renewed. Cable routes were reorganized and expanded, and the stadium received a new floodlighting system and an architectural lighting scheme that enhances the perception of the roof and improves the visitor experience during evening events. All measures were completed on schedule for Euro 2024, leaving the stadium with a bright, uniformly white roof surface that reflects both the renewed membrane and the upgraded lighting.
The modernisation preserves the architectural identity of the Volksparkstadion while restoring structural performance and serviceability under current code requirements. The project demonstrates how a mature spoke-wheel membrane roof can be renewed within its existing framework to meet contemporary expectations for reliability, durability and uninterrupted operation ahead of a major tournament.

Description of the environmental conditions