The newly unveiled Jihlava Municipal Arena, designed by CHYBÍK + KRIŠTOF, stands boldly on the cusp of Jihlava’s historic center. This 5,650-seat sports venue replaces a traditional ice rink, holding its ground where major constructions are rarely seen—adjacent to landmarks such as a university and Smetanovy Sady park. Opened in November 2025, the arena cost EUR 80 million and creatively integrates a scenic running course on its roof, a novel addition inspired by the lack of similar urban facilities.
Architectural Harmony with a Historic Backdrop
Jihlava, a city of about 55,000 residents, opted to keep the arena within its medieval confines rather than relegating it to the outskirts. This decision shapes its unique form. The 6-meter elevation change across the site creates a sweeping staircase, doubling as seating on event nights, while a covered arcade seamlessly weaves through, linking diverse urban environments.
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A Communal Interior with Accessible Design
Inside, visitors find an open concourse that envelops the rink, offering easy access for wheelchair users to prime seating locations. This inclusive design is visible from the rink itself, reflecting a commitment to accessibility without compromise.
A Bold Rooftop Vision
Perhaps the most unique feature is the innovative running path on top. The 230-meter rooftop running track is open to schools and locals, seamlessly blending the arena’s physical structure with civic life. Since its inauguration, more than 250,000 visitors have experienced its varied offerings, including national sports and cultural events.
Stunning Rooftop Track Integration
The arena’s design incorporates a striking façade of red perforated aluminum, nodding to both Jihlava’s coat of arms and the Gothic architectural legacy. This visual distinctiveness, combined with functional perforations that enhance ventilation and light, creates a vibrant yet efficient exterior. Meanwhile, the remarkable rooftop track continues to draw attention for its blend of innovation and community focus.
A Converging Point for the Community
Adjacent structures further enrich the venue, with a multi-storey building housing a hotel and gym opposite the arena. Additionally, a fan shop and Hall of Fame are located at the base, ensuring a vibrant interaction between the venue and the town center. Visitors especially enjoy the unique experience provided by this elevated running path.
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Iconic Façade and Lighting
The arena’s exterior evokes the local identity, articulated with a “hedgehog” motif locally legible. Initially entered as a competition with a different design, the red triangular theme emerged during pandemic redesigns, adding cultural resonance and local engagement.
Engaging Architectural Innovation
Alongside aesthetics, the building demonstrates practical innovation. Concrete stands and exposed steel trusses underline robustness while maintaining elegance. The red panels feature integrated lighting that interacts dynamically with events, further enhancing the arena’s interactive environment.
Adaptive Seating and Acoustic Excellence
The dual-tier design accommodates up to 7,400 spectators with retractable stands for concerts. Custom-designed acoustic seating, developed with David Karásek, reduces echo, providing a tailored auditory experience recognized by international design awards.
Bright Spaces and Artistic Integration
Public art forms a significant part of the arena’s identity. Hand-cast light fixtures and installations reinterpret regional heritage, elevating the aesthetic experience both visually and culturally. The encompassing efforts include enhancements to the neighboring park, underscoring the arena’s primary role as a community-centric space.
A Symbol of Past and Present
The narrative concludes with a poignant artistic gesture—railings from the old rink reimagined into a typographic sculpture, embodying elements of teamwork, defeat, and victory. The Jihlava Municipal Arena stands not only as a hub for sports but as an emblem of cultural and community synergy. The rooftop track, in particular, remains a highlight, drawing visitors and locals alike to engage with the arena’s multifaceted offerings.
Source: urdesignmag.com
Frequently asked questions
What is unique about the Jihlava Municipal Arena’s design?
The Jihlava Municipal Arena features a rooftop running track, which is a novel addition inspired by the lack of similar urban facilities. This 230-meter track is open to schools and locals, blending the arena’s physical structure with civic life.
How does the arena’s design reflect local culture?
The arena’s façade is made of red perforated aluminum, nodding to Jihlava’s coat of arms and Gothic architectural legacy. The red triangular theme emerged from pandemic redesigns, adding cultural resonance and local engagement.
How does the arena ensure accessibility for all visitors?
Inside the arena, visitors find an open concourse that envelops the rink, offering easy access for wheelchair users to prime seating locations. This reflects a commitment to accessibility without compromise.