FNB Stadium

Location: Johannesburg, South Africa

In Nasrec, a district boarding the Soweto area of Johannesburg, sits the the biggest arena in Africa - the FNB Stadium, colloquially known as Soccer City. Originally built in 1987, the stadium underwent major construction in order to host the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The enhancements included an enlarged level around the stadium (whch increased its capacity to over 88,000), new executive suites, an encircled roof, brand new facilities and upgraded equipment.

The aim of Soccer City's design was to be recognisable - the design was to act as a symbol that would automatically be associated with the African continent, while meeting FIFA’s technical requirements. The design, named ‘The Calabash’ was suggested by Boogertman Urban Edge + Partners; it was given this name because its appearance was inspired by the African pot, the calabash. The outer-wall is coated in desert coloured patchwork with a ring of lights surrounding the bottom of the structure, which replicate the fire of the 'calabash' pot.

Photos: Chris Gascoigne