Norfolk Scope Arena. ノーフォーク・スコープ・アリーナ

Commissioned in 1965, the Norfolk Cultural and Convention Center marked a pinnacle of Pier Luigi Nervi’s American career, epitomising his “Nervi style” through the vast reinforced concrete dome of its covered arena. Measuring 134 metres in diameter and 33.5 metres in height, and supported by 24 flying buttresses, the structure was the largest reinforced concrete dome in the world at the time. Designed in collaboration with Williams and Tazewell & Associates and engineered by Fraioli-Blum-Yesselman, the project was coordinated by Nervi’s sons Antonio and Mario, who oversaw architectural and structural aspects respectively. Physical models tested at ISMES in Bergamo and aerodynamic studies at the Politecnico di Torino informed the final design. Despite cost concerns, Nervi insisted on using his prefabrication system, ensuring the arena’s distinctive expressive character. Construction began in 1968, and the building was inaugurated in November 1971 as a monumental testament to Nervi’s structural artistry and international influence.