The Oval Lingotto housed the ice-skating and speed-skating events during the Torino 2006 Olympic Winter Games.
The project was developed by the Studio Zoppini in Milan and the HOK Sport group from London, with the aim of reinterpreting both the design of the adjacent Lingotto building and its subsequent restructuring by Renzo Piano. Simplicity, regularity and modularity in a high-tech composition emerge from an extremely simple outer form, which contrasts with the rich, complex interior.
A great flexible space characterized by the richness of the structure whose entire covered area measures 27,500 square meters. The floor plant is rectangular, measuring 220 m by 128 m, offering an area without columns. The arena of 20,000 square meters can be subdivided into rectangular zones by hanging sound- proof drop curtains. Building height ranges from 9 to 14 meters.
The north side facing Lingotto is slightly curved, made entirely form glass and creates a visual relationship between the building and the adjoining Lingotto plant. The side by which visitors enter gives to the Oval continuity; furthermore, stairs and lifts from the main vestibule permit access to a 1,500 meters long terrace from where visitors have an excellent view of the arena. A large car park outside the building provides parking facilities for program managers and visitors alike.