World Cup fever is upon us and in the true spirit of it all, Nike has opened a series of soccer-inspired, creative Nike stadiums around the world. Taking full advantage of the global hype surrounding the FIFA 2010 World Cup, Nike has created six dynamic, multi-purpose and experimental venues. Opening in Berlin, London, Milan, New York, Paris and Tokyo, these eclectic spaces are where creativity, art, inspiration and football merge into one. These Nike stadiums are unique to each city and they all celebrate athleticism, the community and creativity.
Nike's New York City Stadium officially opened on May 14th. Also known as the Bowery Stadium, it was designed by the New York and London-based architectural firm Rafael de Cárdenas. All summer long and into the fall, various soccer-related activities will be taking place in this venue including architecture, design and art events. The opening party featured an installation called “Order and Progress” as well as a short film “Everything is Practice” that featured iconic filmmaker Spike Lee. Movable wooden seats littered the space promoting spontaneous creativity and dynamic movement. The soccer-inspired interior design continues into the basement of the complex where a traditional locker room is met with an explosion of art created by artist Jack Greer.
The Nike Stadium will also be used as a center for several local NYC sporting programs including the NYC Bridge Runners, Goodtimes FC soccer league as well as several others. Venue sourcing for these creative spaces reflects Nike’s commitment to integrating local communities and fostering creativity through sports and cultural events.
Below are some photographs of the space as well as two videos that were released as promotion:
Nike Stadium Berlin was opened on May 12th followed by the opening of the Nike Stadium in Tokyo on May 23rd. Nike Stadium Madrid is set to open its doors on July 2nd.
Below are some photos of the Nike Stadiums in Berlin and Tokyo:
Nike Stadium Berlin
Nike Stadium Berlin
Nike Stadium Tokyo
Nike Stadium Tokyo
I love these new Nike concept stadiums. I think that they are a brilliant way for a large corporation to get involved with the community and promote local designers, artists and photographers. I don't mind that Nike is using this as a ploy to promote their brand. If it brings awareness and attention to the arts than I'm all for it.
What do you think?