2008 Landmark Olympic structures sparkle in the host city
08/10/2007 |
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In the lead-up to the 2008 Olympic Games, the construction of the Olympic projects is still under way. But a few Olympic venues are already in shape to become Landmark structures in the ancient city, among which are the stunning "Bird's Nest" and "Water Cube."
The National Stadium covers an area of 258,000 square meters, and because of its picturesque shape, it is also known to many as the "Bird's Nest." With a seating capacity for a crowd of 91,000, the red earth-colored stands enclose the center field with wave-like edges and partially staggered rows. The stadium is equipped with up-to-date security, comprehensive monitor and seat removal systems.
The stadium is the main Olympic venue for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.
In the backdrop of the "Bird's Nest" stands the National Aquatics Center, a venue famous for its transparent blue box-alike appearance.
The "Water Cube" covers an area of 65,000 square meters and seats up to 17,000 spectators. During the Olympic Games, the center will play host to the swimming, diving, synchronized swimming, and water polo events.
The shapes of the two structures -- the cubic "Water Cube" and the rounded "Bird's Nest" -- work together give a strong contrast that reflects the traditional literal concept of "the round heaven and the wide earth." In addition, the scattered blue of the "Water Cube" – a soft beauty -- achieved with light bulbs in the bubbles is echoed by a much stronger red color that the "Bird's Nest" projects, another reflection of the profound "Yin-Yang Theory".
Renewable energy sources are largely being used in the construction of the Olympic venues. Sixty-nine related projects that utilize photo electricity, thermal heat, sewage heat, wind power, etc. have been adopted and carried out.
There are a total of 31 Beijing-based Olympic venues, including 12 new venues, 11 undergoing renovations and eight temporary venues. Except for the National Stadium, which is scheduled for completion in March 2008, all venues in Beijing will be completed in 2007.
(Source: BOCOG)
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