Portugal’s most popular football club S.L. Benfica is planning a revamp of its headquarters. Yet instead of focusing solely on the stadium, the surroundings too are being updated by architecture studios Populous and Saraiva + Associados.
Benfica’s current Estádio da Luz stadium dates back to 2004, when it was designed by Populous. Now, over 20 years later, that same architecture studio is partnering with the local Saraiva + Associados to give the building a new, modern facelift. The plans include a fourth level outside of the seating bowl, offering an extra 6,800 square meters of space for commercial, administrative, and hospitality use. However, the most striking addition will consist of a new facade, which will help control light and heat. Integrated lighting will act as a a programmable LED skin, while the typical roof trusses of the Estádio da Luz will be maintained.
“The stadium facade articulates a contemporary architectural language rooted in Lisbon’s evolving urban narrative. A restrained palette of neutral tones fosters a seamless dialogue with the surrounding masterplan, while vertical louvres lend both rhythm and porosity to the envelope. The overall effect pays homage to Benfica’s heritage while creating a striking visual effect looking confidently to the future,” Populous associate principal Michael Forward told Dezeen magazine.
A socially-oriented neighbourhood
However, the makeover will go much further than the stadium alone. A 10,000-capacity multi-purpose indoor arena will be added to the site, as well as a 25-by-25-meter community swimming pool, and two indoor sports halls that can be used for a wide range of sports including basketball and boxing. An outdoor rooftop football pitch and a running track have also been designed by Populous to complete the offer.
Moreover, a theatre and events space holding up to 500 people will be integrated into the master plan while a fan plaza measuring 100 by 40 meters and inspired by Lisbon’s historical squares will act as the heart of the new site. It will be able to host over 10,000, including food options and a DJ deck. The well-known statue of Eusébio, the club’s beloved icon, will be repositioned to the entrance of the plaza.
The idea for the project is to transform the stadium and its surroundings from a seasonal sporting venue into a real neighbourhood, embedded in daily civic life.
“This is an ambitious and strategic project, focused on our members, fans, and the continued growth of the club, which we intend to begin implementing immediately. Our aim is to enhance the stadium and wider masterplan facilities to support all sports and further strengthen Benfica’s position, both in Portugal and around the world, as the country’s leading sporting institution – with completion in time for the major international competitions that Portugal will host. It is a project in the true Benfica spirit – one that enhances the competitive environment, deepens the club experience, and welcomes all those who want to experience what it means to be part of the Chama Imensa, the greatest in Portugal. It is a commitment to make us stronger, more valuable, and an even greater leader,” said Benfica president Rui Costa.
Aside from a social-oriented purpose, the stadium and its surrounding also integrate sustainable design solutions. Green roofs, rainwater harvesting, photovoltaic panels, and resilient landscaping were added to the design in order to make it more eco-friendly.
