How Digital Engineering is Transforming Camp Nou
Designing Europe’s largest stadium is no small feat. It demands precision, speed, and seamless collaboration. The new Spotify Camp Nou, set to accommodate an astounding 105,000 spectators, is a marvel of modern engineering—one made possible through cutting-edge digital tools.
Our customer, SDENG, is involved this project and is sharing with us valuable insight as the project unfolds.
Project Overview
The Camp Nou, FC Barcelona’s iconic stadium, is undergoing a significant transformation as part of the Espai Barça project. This redevelopment aims to modernize the stadium, enhancing its capacity and facilities to provide a state-of-the-art experience for fans and visitors alike.
The renovation plans include increasing the stadium’s seating capacity from 99,354 to approximately 105,000, making it the largest football stadium in Europe upon completion. The project also focuses on integrating advanced technologies to optimize operations and ensure a sustainable, energy-efficient venue.
A Powerful Partnership Driving Innovation
At the heart of this transformation lies a dynamic collaboration between industry leaders:
- SDENG Engineering Bureau – Managing the steel components of the stadium
- Construsoft – Providing state-of-the-art BIM software
- IDEA StatiCa – Ensuring accuracy in steel connections and stiffness analysis
Together with Limak Group, the project’s lead contractor, these teams are bringing the vision of Camp Nou’s future to life.
SDENG's role
SDENG Engineering Bureau plays a pivotal role in this ambitious project. Their responsibilities encompass the design and application study of 35,000 tons of structural steel for new constructions, including the state-of-the-art suspended roof and a 360° circular screen at the stadium’s center. This collaboration involves coordination with companies worldwide, utilizing Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology at the highest Level of Development (LOD500) to ensure precision and efficiency.
Building the Digital Framework
A project of this magnitude requires real-time coordination across multiple countries. From initial design refinements to steel fabrication, every decision must be executed with absolute precision. But how is this achieved?
1. BIM & 3D Modeling: The Digital Backbone
Using Tekla Structures and Trimble Connect, engineers can visualize every steel component in intricate detail. These tools help detect potential clashes before they become costly errors, ensuring smooth coordination across all project teams.
2. Seamless Digital Workflows: Real-Time Collaboration
With 35,000 tons of structural steel and concrete in play, keeping all stakeholders aligned is critical. Thanks to digital workflows, teams across the globe receive live updates, eliminating delays and enhancing efficiency.
3. Advanced Connection Design: Precision & Safety
Ensuring structural integrity is paramount. With IDEA StatiCa, engineers can analyze and verify steel connections with pinpoint accuracy. This not only guarantees compliance with safety regulations but also optimizes material use, reducing waste and costs.