[The Familia]

Originally Posted by browna

Yeah, no point for a retractable roof. As we all know the temperature is the issue, so may as well spend the money to enclose it, or leave it wide open (blocking the north end off as much as to prevent that winter wind from blowing through).

As for Winnipeg, looks really odd from the picture. What's the point for all the beams on the roof? Just to make it look more advanced the it is on the inside? A huge gap between the roof and the seats, on both sides...like its missing a section of stands (future expansion?), and then the far end looks again like they just ran out of funds or ideas to do something of interest there (seats or otherwise).

And then the event floor, as if again they ran out of ideas or money when it came to the area around the field level....odd shaped and not a lot of sideline room, and then a bunch of grey concrete that looks like like an unfinished parkade (as really the whole thing looks unfinished).

I trust whatever is built in Calgary,assuming an outdoor stadium is part of the complex we're arguing about, will be a little less of a forced/cost cut industrial type design.

I'll step in to defend Winnipeg's stadium (I'm not from Winnipeg nor do I cheer for their teams, I happen to like the stadium). That is an old picture from one of the very first events before everything was finished. First, the sidelines are kind of tight in order to bring the fans closer to the field. I think that is an excellent idea and something that really good stadiums employ. The concrete wall around the field now has specialized Winnipeg Blue Bomber wall coverings on it. It looks very slick as it is all gold with the Bomber logo on it. No concrete shows anymore. I like the wavy roof and the giant arches holding it. It does look a little clunky (could have been more refined) but it stands out and has a "big time" feel to it. I do agree that the gap between the top row and the roof should be closed in. Gloass panels or a translucent film (see BC place) with LED's would be super slick. The endzones have a patio gathering area above the seats that leave room for temporary expansion seats (Grey Cups). These areas always seem full and popular when I watch games on TV. I like how the stadium is completely enclosed with seats. While there are a few flaws with the stadium, overall I think it is gorgeous. With some minor tweaks over the years it could become a true beauty.