IDOM wins the ArchDaily Building of the Year with the Claro Arena

IDOM has been awarded the ArchDaily Building of the Year 2026 in the Sports Architecture category for its modernisation project of the Universidad Católica Stadium (Claro Arena), located in Santiago, Chile. 

The project transforms the historic San Carlos de Apoquindo into a contemporary venue, expanding its capacity from 12,000 to 20,000 spectators and incorporating a set of innovative solutions in structure, sustainability and user experience.

The transformation delivers a venue capable of hosting events year-round and places Club Universidad Católica at the forefront of sports infrastructure in the region.

The intervention preserves the original stands and integrates them into a new architectural system composed of a 360-degree perimeter boulevard and a lightweight upper extension that redefines the stadium’s identity. 

The 2026 SVB LIVE Conference & Exhibition – with a focus on elevating the live experience through pillars including Architecture and Premium Experience – is being hosted at Everton’s spectacular new Hill Dickinson Stadium on October 1st and 2nd. The event will commence with an Opening Night Icebreaker at Liverpool FC’s iconic Anfield stadium on September 30th.

The proposal stands out for its sustainable approach: it reuses the existing concrete structure, incorporates 1,600m³ of Chilean laminated timber—which captures more than 1,500 tons of  CO₂—and recycles demolition materials such as steel and plastics. The timber-slat façade and the mixed timber-and-steel roof optimise lighting, ventilation and acoustic comfort. 

With this recognition, IDOM strengthens its position as an international benchmark in sports infrastructure, reinforcing a trajectory built on innovation, structural efficiency and a strong commitment to sustainability.

Source & imagery, courtesy: IDOM

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