Hall in Odate, Japan

The plan form and profile of the hall were determined by its principal use – as a baseball arena. The asymmetric dome is supported by a lightly tilted reinforced concrete ring raised on columns. One has the impression of a surprisingly light roof structure that seems almost to hover above the ground. As a result, it was possible to integrate the hall into its surroundings far more easily than other structures of this size. This sense of lightness is enhanced by the form of the load-bearing construction and by the translucent Teflon roof covering. The structure consists of laminated double timber beams in native softwood with steel connecting pieces and bracing members. The dimensions of the beams reflect the flow of forces in the roof.