Max Aicher Arena, Inzell, Germany

The existing speed skating track and ice hockey rink have been enclosed to allow training and competitions throughout the year. During normal operations – both elite training and public skating – occupancy of 150 people must be accommodated, while during World Cup and similar large events occupancy can increase up to 7,000 spectators.

The following targets were established for the project: optimal ice and indoor air conditions for training and competition, glare-free daylighting, no fog or condensation on the rink as well as the reduction of annual energy demand compared to other speed skating facilities.

An integrated design process led to a climate and energy concept including dessicant dehumidification, daylighting through a sawtooth roof, separation of air supply for spectators and athletes, minimization of infrared radiation on the ice surface via low-e coated membrane below the roof, waste heat recovery from ice generation process and low primary energy demand from a biomass heating plant.

Detailed dynamic simulations and multiple personal records during the World Championship 2011 showed that the Inzell Speed Skating Rink achieves both high comfort levels and an extremely ‘fast ice’ for the athletes. Operating results confirm that the primary energy demand is 30% lower in comparison to other international speed skating facilities.

2013 IOC/IAKS Award - Bronze
2012 Green Good Design Award
2012 Wessobrunner Architekturpreis Destinction
2011 World Sports Building of the Year