Mikkelsen Arkitekter, the studio behind Thorvald Ellegaard Arena, seems to have taken inspiration from the famous fable of the tortoise and the hare. Though the arena is designed primarily for track cycling, one of the fastest human-powered sports in the summer Olympics, its exterior is distinctly reminiscent of a tortoise's shell -- a constant reminder of the philosophy that slowness and steadiness tend to prevail.
Thorvald Ellegaard Arena's roof is covered by an industrial white tarpaulin that is supported by metal struts running the width of the building. This skeletal form is what creates the segmented look of a reptile's shell.
On the interior, the arena has a professional cycling track for both practice and official races. It also hosts space for other athletics, including a running track, a pole vault bar, and a long jump pit.
Tortoise-Like Cycling Arenas
Thorvald Ellegaard Arena Has a Roof Like a Reptilian Shell
Trend Themes
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Industry Implications
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