Olympic gold for Holmenkollen ski jump

International architecture prize for project

Aim high: The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the International Association for Sports and Leisure Facilities (IAKS) recently awarded the New Holmenkollen Ski Jump in Oslo with the “IOC/IAKS Award 2011”. 133 entries from 36 countries competed for the unique international architecture prize for sports facilities. The Holmenkollen, designed by the Danish office JDS architects, won in the „gold” category.

The Holmenkollen Fyr (English: lighthouse) is Oslo’s new and widely visible landmark. As host of the Nordic World Ski Championships, the new ski jump established itself as prestigious sports facility. About 7,300 square metres of stainless steel mesh of the type Sambesi light and PC-Sambesi clad the gigantic steel structure. The robust high-tech mesh by GKD – Gebr. Kufferath AG functions as wind filter protecting the athletes from extreme wind loads and temperature variations. During the day, the membrane gleams in interplay with natural light. When it gets dark, the mesh which is backlit from the inside turns the ski jump into a hill of light reaching toward the sky. In its decision, the jury emphasised creative implementation, integration in the environment, as well as sustainability of the project and honoured the design with this award.

Picture © GKD