Olympic Stadia: Theatres of Dreams - Tapa dura

Olympic Stadia: Theatres of Dreams provides a comprehensive account of the history and development of Olympic Stadia including: the evolution of running tracks, the introduction of lighting, and continuing improvements in spectator viewing and comfort standards.

Co-authored by a world-renowned expert on sports architecture, the book:

• Systematically analyses every stadium from Athens 1896 to Tokyo 2020, setting its design and construction in historical and political context
• Provides drawings, plans, elevations, photographs and illustrations in full colour
• Considers the fundamental changes wrought by the incorporation of the Paralympic Games

• Explores the effects of the ever-more elaborate Opening and Closing Ceremonies and the demands of the world’s media and TV broadcasters

• Looks at the impact on host cities and their urban infrastructure, and considers the long-term legacies of the massive investments that Olympic stadia require.

An invaluable and beautiful resource for practical insight and inspiration, this book makes essential reading for anyone considering an Olympic bid or just interested in the architectural and structural challenges Olympic stadia usually present.

Geraint John, Dip. Arch (UCL), RIBA, Companion CIMPSA, FRSA, has a deep involvement in buildings for sport and leisure.  His previous experience as the chief architect and head of the Technical Unit for Sport at the GB Sports Council has made him an expert in the particular field of sports facilities. Geraint is a Senior Advisor to Populous, architects and sport venue design experts, who were voted Architect’s Journal International Practice of the Year in 2014. He has been recently awarded the Pierre de Coubertin Medal for outstanding services to the Olympic movement, confirmed by Mr. Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee, (IOC).

Dave Parker B.Sc., CEng., FICE., was technical editor of New Civil Engineer magazine for 14 years before leaving in May 2006 to become a freelance author and journalist. New Civil Engineer is published by Emap under licence from the Institution of Civil Engineers, and goes monthly to all members of the ICE.

Prior to becoming a journalist 30 years ago, Dave was a practising civil engineer for more than 25 years. He worked in both design and contracting, was senior partner of a small forensic engineering practice, and technical marketing director of a specialist products company.

Dave is also a former Visiting Professor of Civil Engineering at the Queen’s University of Belfast, a position he held for ten years.

In 2014 Dave was asked to return to New Civil Engineer as technical editor emeritus.