Empty Nest Syndrome?

In the days leading up to the long-awaited 2014 World Cup protestors ravaged the streets of Brazil.  Even though many factors contributed to civil unrest, one of them was the consequence of FIFA’s influence over the country. What would happen to the 12 enormous stadiums after the fans and players leave? How could these structures be repurposed to benefit the country?  Or were they all just really expensive displays that will cost a ton of money to maintain?

Enter Casa Futebol

Designed by two French architects, the 1Week1Project is the idea to reuse some of the soccer stadiums into modular housing units. The need for affordable housing in Brazil is reason enough to make this idea a reality, but unfortunately, it isn’t that simple. Before the stadiums were built, it would have been a great idea to consider some of these design questions.  If they had planned to reuse them for housing, the transition would have been in the blueprints already – but hindsight is 20/20, huh?

What Next?

Some of the stadiums will be torn down, some will become public parks, and a few will be reused for the 2016 Olympics. Other plans intend to use the stadiums as event venues which will generate revenue.  The verdict is still out, but the whole concept raises interesting questions about massive architectural events and their impact. Look back to the original World’s Fair phenomenon and how those cities repurposed their creations… if you want to learn more, look here.

What do you think about the Casa Futebol project? Do you have any other ideas for reusing the World Cup stadiums? 

Photo Source: inhabitat, 1Week1Project