Construction of a sports canopy for year-round use of a hockey field

SMC2 delivered a sports canopy featuring a hybrid timber and steel structure combined with a tensile membrane roof system. The objective of this structure? To enable year-round use of the hockey field by protecting it from both weather conditions and sun exposure.

The choice of the building system was key. Maintaining natural daylight throughout the day was essential, which is why a textile membrane—valued for its translucency—was selected. The load-bearing structure is made of glulam timber and hot-dip galvanized steel, ensuring a reduced environmental footprint. A textile membrane façade completes the structure, providing enhanced protection against the elements. Finally, LED lighting was integrated, allowing the field to be used both day and night.

To further improve playing comfort, ball-stop netting was installed: two vertical nets to enclose the field and separate it from the adjacent running track, and one horizontal net to protect the roof structure.

This project is a strong example of the benefits of a sports canopy covering a field: optimized use of the sports facility, enhanced playing comfort, and an aesthetic, environmentally responsible structure.