Smart Skin // Re-Imagining the Daytona International Speedway
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Smart Skin // Re-Imagining the Daytona International Speedway

Feb 1, 2016 -- The $400 million redevelopment of the Daytona International Speedway is just 75 days away from its grand opening for the 58th Annual Daytona 500. The transformation of this American Icon includes ROSSETTI’S re-imagining of the stadium’s exterior, a nearly mile-long perforated stainless steel skin that encases the whole structure.

Machine on the Beach

ROSSETTI designed the skin to change from end-to-end of the speedway, inspired by a “machine on the beach” concept. At the west end, the design is more curvaceous and streamlined, like that of a stock car streaking along the race course. Moving further east down the mile stretch of the speedway, the facade starts to break apart displaying a more faceted design.

Redesigned Entrances 

Each break in the design gives way to five redesigned entrances or “injectors” which lead fans to a series of escalators and elevators, transporting them to three different concourse levels. The injectors will be branded with sponsor messaging from the founding partner companies – Sunoco, Chevrolet, Toyota, and Florida Hospital.

 

A Dynamic Surface

The pattern of solid and perforated metal panels was chosen as it emphasizes the speed of the vehicles on the track while providing a dynamic surface that reflects the local environment of Daytona. Each injector tower also features a transparent panel that starts to glow at dusk.

Above: Close-up of the perforated steel skin


Beautiful Backdrop

“The skin becomes a mirror of the weather conditions and changes dramatically throughout the day, creating a beautiful backdrop,” says Matt Taylor, the Lead Design Architect on the project. Each trip to the Daytona International Speedway will be unique and different from the last, greatly enhancing the NASCAR fan experience. 

 



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