Do all those involved have the necessary experience and expertise?

The ice hockey team HC Fribourg-Gottéron had already begun to outgrow their rink soon after its completion in 1982, leading to repeated discussions about enlarging it to provide more spectator seating. In 2015, the club commissioned initial studies for a modernisation and expansion. Construction work began three years later and the revamped arena opened in 2020. Two Fribourg-based planning firms, bfik architectes and INGENI SA structural engineers, were substantially responsible for the design. Numerous other companies were also involved in the planning and execution. The renovation was largely privately funded.

Does the place serve its purpose?

The BCF Arena is the home venue of HC Fribourg-Gottéron. Originally known as the Patinoire de Saint-Léonard when it was built in 1982, the indoor ice rink had a capacity of 7,720 spectators. Following completion of the reconfiguration ahead of the 2020/2021 season, the arena now has a capacity of around 9,000 and features 6 restaurants, 12 concession stands and 336 box seats. The remodelling of the old indoor ice rink not only aimed to increase spectator capacity, but also to provide a sports infrastructure that meets today’s requirements in terms of safety, energy, hospitality and comfort.

Are negative impacts on the environment minimised?

Since the renovation, 3,770 square metres of photovoltaic panels have been installed on the roof of the arena, generating around 700 megawatt hours per year. The waste heat generated from the production of ice is used to heat the premises and produce hot water. Any surplus is fed into the Fribourg power grid. The site uses 100 per cent renewable electricity, in keeping with the city of Fribourg’s energy strategy.

Are the construction materials and methods durable, require little maintenance, and maintain or even enhance the place’s value?

The modifications expanded the perimeter and roof of the original 1982 structure, while retaining the existing spectator stands and ice rink. The new metal roof, specially developed for the building, rests on the top ring of new spectator seating. The roof structure is designed to eliminate the need for any columns inside the venue. As a result, there are no areas of restricted visibility anywhere in the arena. Built predominantly of durable steel and aluminium, the enlarged facility promises sustainability.

Does the place foster community?

Sports venues are places of encounter. People from all walks of life and all ages flock to watch their club in action. The shared excitement, commiseration and celebration bring people together across generations. The BCF Arena, with its distinctive “witch’s cauldron” tiered grandstand, creates an atmosphere that strengthens the sense of community.

Was the place thoroughly analysed prior to the intervention?

The club spent years evaluating various proposals before creating the current arena. In order to save costs and not restrict sports activities, it enlarged the existing structure without interrupting operations. The transformation was carried out by building a new concrete structure that surrounds the existing structure. This forms a new grandstand ring with three additional levels and numerous staircases for circulation. The new roof, consisting of a system of intersecting steel beams, spans the expanded interior and covers an area of 105 metres by 80 metres.

Is the place notable for its distinctiveness?

From the outside, the enlarged stadium’s shimmering exterior is particularly striking. It is composed of partially perforated, partially solid pyramidal aluminium panels. Arranged in a grid, they create a crystalline surface that, according to the architects, is reminiscent of the scales of a dragon – the club’s heraldic animal. The semi-transparent panels allow views through the exterior shell in both directions.

Does the place have an atmospheric impact on the beholder?

The physical presence of many people in the arena, the chanting, the rituals, the devotion to the team – all this creates a strong emotional mood and atmosphere. The steep grandstands and the visual focus on the bright ice rink at the centre of the otherwise black interior intensify this effect.