Is that the side that has the boxes? If so, what would go between the seat level and the field? Field level suites? James
It is as if Audi is some old ground where the four sections were built in different periods. Whether you look across to the other touchline or to the other goalline, it is not the same design.
To be honest, that's one of the things that I really like about the design. It is unique and has a throwback feel. A lot of the newer MLS stadiums are carbon copies of each other. I also like how the NE building looks similar to old pavilions in stadiums in the 1920's and 30's. It used to be a common feature.
On the other hand, a great many classic old English and Scottish stadia were famously asymmetrical, owing to the fact that each of the four sides was built and rebuilt separately over the span of many decades. A great read is "Engineering Archie", an illustrated history of the countless stadia designed by Archibald Leitch from the 1890s to the 1930s. His creations often weren't terribly symmetrical the day they opened.
I had a chance to drive by the stadium yesterday, and I am really psyched. Checked it out from Ft. McNair -- it was great to see up close. @sitruc has done a great job with his photo documentation, but seeing it in person is worth the trip to SW DC.
Yes, it's the side with the boxes. I know everyone has their own tastes. For me, when building modern, symmetry is a must, but I also like vanilla ice cream more than just about any flavor.
The asymmetry is a design element to avoid PTSD for longtime fans. Imagine moving from a crumbling wreck like RFK to a shiny, new, symmetrical "perfect" stadium in one fell swoop. Too much to handle. Better to let the stadium have quirks and imperfections. As long as the restrooms don't "flood" like they used to do at RFK, I'll be happy.
Low bid job with DC inspectors. Don't be sitting on the throne when they turn the field sprinklers on
I think it is just not complete. If you look at the concrete walls, they keep the same slope as the seating section. They should continue down to the field.
If you want some interesting alternative pics of the inside of AF, look it up on Google Maps. Check out the 61 pics of it posted there. Some look like they date from last week, posted by the construction peep themselves. One is taken from the very very top of the West side; the hanging lights (PA speakers?) are in-your-face visible.
I feel like I have no idea what anybody is talking about. From the camera 2 perspective, SW corner is bottom left of the screen, closest to the camera. SE is to the right, North is straight ahead. Is everyone on that same page? The eastern stands will continue down a few rows closer to the field. You can see the concrete supports for the stands.
I, too, don't get the issue. The center sections of the west stand don't go to the field level because there's a cutout for the player benches.
Those are some really cool pics and videos from inside the construction site. The views from the top stands are impressive. I hope the workers posting them will keep it up (and that the company won't catch them if it's not allowed).
Re: #2 - those are infiltration areas for stormwater. They will ultimately tie into the storm drain pipe that surrounds the field.
I'm just guessing, but those orange things they installed today might be part of a grey water system to collect and reuse water to irrigate the field. There are two seating sections like in Euro stadiums.
The upside of the "infiltration facility" is that you probably can't host a monster truck rally at Audi Field as it would cause damage.