OODA Studio unveils the new headquarters of the Portuguese League: a building that reflects the history and tradition of Portuguese football, perfectly integrated into the city of Porto
The new headquarters of the Portuguese Football League in Porto is an example of how architecture can redefine the relationship between sport, the city, and the community. This multifunctional building, designed by OODA, includes offices, an auditorium, a museum, a sports arena, and a large green area that connects the structure to the surrounding urban space.
The new Liga Portugal Arena: between inspiration and design
Though seemingly simple in form, the Liga Portugal Arena is based on complex architectural solutions. During the initial research phase, the design team came across a well-known quote from former British footballer Bill Shankly: “What a great day for football – all you need is a ball and a field.” While the project does not take this statement literally, it draws inspiration from it. This influence is evident in the design—especially in the green roof that extends into the adjacent riverside park and the suspended white volume that resembles a ball resting on the grass.
Light and Space
Natural light played a central role throughout the design process of the new headquarters. Carefully positioned openings allow sunlight to enter, creating a narrative of textures and shadows. At night, the Arena transforms into an urban beacon—its lighting highlights the building’s geometric lines within the cityscape.
The tower and the public square
One of the project’s defining features is undoubtedly the cube-shaped tower. The design team aimed to create a building that is both functional and visually striking. The white hexagonal façade references the world of football, evoking the texture of a ball or the net of a goal, while the use of glass and fiberglass generates dynamic geometric patterns that catch and reflect the light. This project also includes a public square, conceived as an extension of the city and the main entry point to the building.
The new Portuguese League headquarters: a community hub
According to João Jesus, Partner at OODA, “The building was designed to strengthen the connection between the surrounding city, the community, and the League institution itself.” The new headquarters of the Portuguese Football League is therefore an example of how architecture can contribute to the revitalization of an urban area and foster a sense of community. Finally, the structure is sustainable and environmentally conscious, with a green roof extending into the riverside park and a façade that allows natural light to permeate the building.
