Aviva Stadium: a parametric success

The Aviva Stadium, Dublin, is the first stadium to be designed from start to finish using commercially available parametric modelling software. A single model in Bentley’s Generative Components was shared between architects and engineers, which allowed the optimised design of form, structure and façade. The parametric software was extended where necessary to integrate with structural analysis and to automate fabrication. By reducing the overhead associated with design iterations, this approach allowed detailed exploration of options and early identification and resolution of potential problems. In this paper, the authors add to the body of scientific knowledge by describing in detail the methods which led to the construction of the Aviva Stadium. This paper is written in light of the completed building and provides information on the generation and control of the envelope geometry, development and analysis of structure and documentation for construction. Whilst these components have been discussed independently previously [1–4], here these aspects are drawn together for the first time and are presented alongside thoughts on the manufacturing and construction processes from the project architect.