Avicii Arena Modernization

Avicii Arena originally opened in 1989 as the world’s largest spherical building. Despite being one of Stockholm’s most recognizable landmarks, the arena was underutilized.

Challenging acoustics hampered performances, and the original configuration struggled to create intimacy across different event types. A $92 million modernization, led by HOK with C.F. Møller Architects and schlaich bergermann partner (sbp), tackles these issues within the existing building shell while respecting its protected heritage status.

Design Solutions

As a listed heritage building with a spherical geometry, every major intervention had to occur within the existing envelope. The design team was challenged to create a completely new experience within the venue without altering the arena’s exterior. The first priority was acoustics.

Akin to building a ship in a bottle, the transformation’s signature feature—a retractable acoustic ceiling—was carefully engineered to fit within the constraints of the spherical structure. Reflective panels, suspended from a “potato chip” shaped inner curved ring and outer compression ring, reduce the building’s volume, optimizing acoustics and improving the atmosphere for events like ice hockey and concerts.

A slender cable net supports the ceiling’s infrastructure, while providing staff a safe, walkable mesh platform. The ceiling was thoughtfully constructed with off-the-shelf parts to simplify maintenance and minimize costs. This adaptable system allows operators to tailor the venue’s atmosphere and acoustics for a wide range of events while dramatically improving sound quality and production capabilities.

The modernization also enhances the fan experience through new premium hospitality spaces and the introduction of gondola seating. These cantilevered platforms, inspired by a similar feature at Little Caesars Arena, appear to float above the floor, providing a unique vantage point and intimate connection to the action. A reconfigured seating bowl, upgraded technology and expanded rigging capacity further support diverse event configurations and faster production turnarounds.

Impact

By reusing the existing building rather than constructing a replacement, the city avoided the environmental and financial costs of demolition and new construction. The project minimizes embodied and operational carbon and extends the life of a civic icon.

The modernization’s effects extend beyond the venue. The project allowed a nearby underperforming arena to be demolished, freeing land for development, while increased activity strengthens the surrounding entertainment district and improves pedestrian links. Since reopening in February 2025, demand for premium and gondola seating has exceeded expectations and event bookings have increased significantly.

Avicii Arena once again anchors Stockholm’s entertainment district, providing the city, spectators and performers a revitalized venue that balances heritage with contemporary performance standards.