India, April 13 -- Look at the design for the King Salman Stadium in Riyadh and one sees a germinating seed breaking through the earth. The design, by the Australian firm Populous, aims to evoke a sense of growth.
There is plenty of actual green too. Gardens and rooftop walking paths offer panoramic views of the adjacent King Abdulaziz Park, which is connected to the stadium via a 9-km sports track. Green walls and ceilings arch over 96,500 sq metres of the venue, to protect players and viewers from the harsh desert climate.
Upon completion, the facility will act as the headquarters of the Saudi Arabian national football team. The arena will serve as a central venue when Saudi Arabia hosts the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
The masterplan includes...