Varner Arena, ice hockey arena, Asker, Norway
In Asker Municipality, 20 km southwest of Oslo, IF Frisk Asker is the pride of the city. The team competes in Norway’s most prestigious ice hockey division, the EliteHockey League, and has a history dating back to 1935. Known as The Tigers, Frisk Asker has won the national championship multiple times. However, over the years, their facilities became outdated. Consequently, a collaboration agreement was established between the club, the contractor and the developer to construct a modern, multifunctional arena with a rink that meets NHL standards.
Important landmark for the town and club
The partners maintained close communication throughout the process, as the new arena needed to fulfil many requirements beyond the NHL standards. JoB Arkitekter from Stavanger won the project by proposing a large, versatile design to house 3,750 spectators, featuring an underground car park and the capability to host not only ice hockey and figure skating, but also a variety of other events. For the new arena to serve as a landmark for the entire city, significant emphasis was placed on the facade’s design to convey a sense of modern dynamism. Therefore, the design process involved specialists from RMIG Solutions.
Modern yet timeless perforated facade
The architects opted for a blend of on-site cast concrete elements, prefabricated grandstand components and extensive steel construction. Early on, RMIG Solutions was consulted regarding the optimal use of perforation and material selection, as well as the production and delivery of the 1,300 panels required to cover 18,500 m² facade. These anodised 2.0 mm aluminium elements envelop the entire building and are interspersed with glass sections across its full height, adding variation and lightness. The facade also incorporates glass doors, windows and wooden surfaces.
Vibrant and engaging variations
Zooming in on the perforation itself, it consists of square holes with varying open areas that contribute significantly to the dynamic design. Furthermore, the panels are arranged irregularly, giving the facade an airy and elegant appearance while also being highly vibrant. This reduces the visual mass of the large building and instead imparts a floating quality that complements the modern functionality visitors encounter inside.