Long before you reach the city centre the large volumes of commercial buildings in Zürich-Altstetten indicate the approaching city. The new stadium is inserted in a natural and yet self-assured way in this series of giants. A robust plinth anchors it between the railway tracks, motorway and allotment gardens. The entrance is carved out of one corner of the plinth. Visitors use wide flights of steps to arrive directly at the public city terrace from where they have an expansive view across the Limmattal.

The main elements of the brief, volley ball arena, ice hockey arena, and training hall are combined within the major form of the building. The volleyball arena hangs between the city terrace and the roof. The ice hockey facilities take up the northern part of the building. A veil of perforated and folded chrome steel is laid like a tablecloth over the building. It unifies the different functions while at the same time giving some impression of the large spaces behind it. On days when matches are being played a festive, lantern-like lighting indicates that sporting events are taking place inside.