Spodek Arena (Poland)

Opened in 1971, the Spodek Arena in Katowice, Poland, is a defining symbol of post-war modernism and brutalist architecture. Its unmistakable saucer-like shape — earning it the nickname “UFO” — has made it an iconic landmark of Polish architecture. Designed by architects Maciej Gintowt and Maciej Krasiński, Spodek was a bold statement of innovation, both structurally and aesthetically. Over the decades, it has served as a premier venue for sports events, concerts, and civic gatherings, cementing its role in Poland’s cultural and urban fabric.

In 2020, more than 50 years after its inauguration, Spodek underwent a critical phase of renovation, led by 2G Studio. With wear over time and growing demands from contemporary audiences and performers, a refurbishment was essential to preserve its relevance and operational integrity. The bathrooms were a critical area that needed a full upgrade and Roca helped the team achieve the final result, one which fit in with the historic legacy of the arena and designed to function with contemporary, high-use needs of a public space.

The renovation project was comprehensive in scope, aiming to enhance sustainability, extend the arena’s lifespan, and improve visitor experience without compromising its architectural identity. Key interventions included structural reinforcements, energy-efficient systems, and modernised interior facilities. Public institutions, local authorities, and engineering consultants collaborated to align the project with current environmental and safety regulations.

One of the most significant challenges was balancing the arena’s brutalist heritage with today’s functional requirements. Careful material selection, adaptive reuse strategies, and sensitive upgrades ensured that the spirit of Spodek remained intact. Bathroom products and fixtures needed to be contemporary, to fit with the style of the futuristic space, but also be extremely durable, easy to clean and highly accessible to account for high-volume usage. Ceramic washbasins in a public arena are used countless times a day. For this, they sought out models that would accommodate multiple users at the same time and fit seamlessly into the design. With their rounded, almost oblong form that connects to the shape of the arena, the Beyond wall-hung basins in Fineceramic® were natural fit. Hall wall-hung basins and Neo Selene further enhanced the bathroom experience. Electronic faucets, including the L20 electronic basin faucet in chrome and the Avant self closing built-in faucets are energy efficient and designed for heavy usage. A row of Chic collection ceramic urinals were installed along the wall for the men’s restroom areas while the women’s bathrooms feature a mix of Nexo collection WC’s and wall-hung WC’s and Duplo flush systems.

The renovation of Spodek Arena is a benchmark for preserving architectural heritage while embracing the future — a fitting evolution for a structure that once looked like it came from another world. In this collaboration, Roca reaffirms its commitment to design and durability, offering contemporary and long-lasting products as the arena enters into its next chapter.