The architecture of modern football stadiums is wonderful for many reasons. They create the perfect setting to enjoy matchdays, turning each game into a spectacle and inspiring passion among fans. At the same time though, they can become attractive landmarks to draw in tourists and visitors. We want to have a closer look here to see which stadiums have the best designs architecturally. Then, if you need help from an architect in London, you can talk to us.

Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid

The legendary home of Real Madrid CF had an impressive renovation between 2019 and 2024. It brought some impressive changes for the stadium itself, including a new architectural envelope with a futuristic design, a fully retractable roof that can cover all seats, and new sustainability features. Easily the most impressive feature though is the retractable pitch. The amazing system allows the pitch to be moved underground and stored in a carefully controlled environment. It helps preserve it and maintain the quality, while also allowing the Bernabeu to host other events without damaging the pitch.

The renovation did more than just improve the stadium too. The wider area also got a big upgrade, including new plazas, a hotel, and a shopping centre. It makes the area a popular tourist spot today, a locale that thrives even when it isn’t a matchday.

Allianz Arena, Munich

The iconic home of FC Bayern Munich will celebrate its 20th anniversary of opening at the end of the month. Since completion in 2005, it has become one of the most popular stadiums in the world, including among architects. The most inspirational feature is the innovative facade. It features almost 3,000 inflated ETFE panels. They give it a stunning white appearance from a distance. However, they can be illuminated in different colours to make the facade come alive.

While the design itself is notable, the consideration of the wider area is also really interesting. The location and level of accessibility is exceptional, setting high standards before it became such a pivotal consideration. The level of security is fantastic too. Ultimately, the Allianz is a wonderful model for creating a modern, urban setting with football at its heart.

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London

As an architect in London, we have to mention one of the UK’s best stadiums. Home to Tottenham Hotspur FC, it got a lot of attention when it opened in 2019. It has gotten a huge amount of praise for the design, especially the fact it is a multi-events venue. Notably, there is a world first dividing retractable pitch. There is a real grass pitch that can retract and be replaced with a synthetic one for NFL and other types of events.

One of the most interesting things here is the stadium is part of the wider Northumberland Development Project. It will transform this part of London. When all is said and done, there will be hundreds of new homes, a hotel, a new extreme sports venue, retail, schools, public space, and more.

Ad Hoc Arena, Ernst Abbe Sportfeld, Jena

Most people won’t be familiar with the German city of Jena. Even fewer will know they have a football team, FC Carl Zeiss Jena. The club has an impressive history, but hasn’t been above the second tier since 1990 (currently fourth tier).

While the club may be smaller and not as well-known, the new Ad Hoc Arena is a favourite. In fact, StadiumDB gave it the title of Best Stadium in the World 2024. The new design, complete in 2024, is impressive architecturally because of the patterned, translucent facade. There are PV panels on the roof, creating a nice consistency with the facade. In the wider area there are other sporting facilities, practice pitches, and more.

Do you want help from a top architect in London?

Football stadiums today are often the centrepiece of the location. Exceptional designs need to think about more than just the sporting side. They also have to look at accessibility, security, and the needs of other stakeholders. These same ideas translate perfectly to other projects, including housing and commercial architecture.

If you want some help with a project, speak to Coffey Architects. We’ve got a fantastic reputation and a diverse, creative team. We’ll be the perfect architect in London if you have a project here. Crucially, we’ll be able to help with vital things like planning and design. So, get in touch and learn more about us.