FEM Wins ArchDaily 2025 Building of the Year Awards

ArchDaily

February 20, 2025

The Ferdinand E. Marcos Stadium, designed by WTA Architecture and Design Studio, has been honored with the prestigious ArchDaily 2025 Building of the Year Award. This 12,000-capacity track and field stadium, located in Laoag City, Philippines, serves as a central social hub for the residents of Ilocos Norte. Its strategic placement adjacent to the Mariano Marcos State University and opposite Rizal Park enhances its accessibility and significance within the community.

A standout feature of the stadium is its open southern end, which seamlessly integrates an amphitheater and a sloping lawn leading towards Rizal Park. This design fosters an inclusive environment, transforming the stadium into a barrier-free public space that encourages community engagement. The use of locally produced corrugated sheets for the stadium's envelope not only pays homage to local materials but also promotes sustainability in monumental architecture.

The ArchDaily Building of the Year Awards are determined through public votes, reflecting the collective appreciation of the global architectural community. The recognition of the Ferdinand E. Marcos Stadium underscores its architectural excellence and its significant impact on both the local community and the broader field of architecture.

This accolade adds to the stadium's growing list of honors, including the 2024 Golden A' Design Award in Architecture, Building, and Structure Design. These awards highlight the innovative approach of WTA Architecture and Design Studio in creating spaces that are both functional and socially meaningful.

The success of the Ferdinand E. Marcos Stadium serves as an inspiration for future architectural projects, demonstrating how thoughtful design can enhance community interaction and contribute to the cultural fabric of a region.

To view the full list, see here.