The Secrets Behind Jakarta International Stadium's Retractable Roof System

Large-scale stadium design involves more than accommodating spectator capacity and ensuring the quality of the playing field. Architects must integrate long-span structures, circulation for tens of thousands of visitors, ventilation, acoustics, natural lighting, and flexible event configurations into a unified building system.

Jakarta International Stadium (JIS), designed by Pandega Desain Weharima, is located in Papanggo, Tanjung Priok, North Jakarta. Covering approximately 170,656 m², the stadium accommodates around 82,000 spectators and reaches a height of 73 meters.

One of the most defining elements of this stadium, a finalist in the Infrastructure category of the Steel Architectural Award 2024, is its retractable roof spanning approximately 200 meters. The system reflects the principles of modern stadium structures, particularly the need to coordinate structural spans, loads, visibility, and operational requirements from the initial concept stage.

Similar approaches can also be found in other Steel Architectural Award 2024 finalist projects:

• GOR Djarum Magelang incorporates large-span sports spaces to maintain athletes' freedom of movement and clear sightlines.

• Indonesia Arena uses a space frame structure and flexible seating arrangements to accommodate various events.

• Raja Haji Fisabilillah International Airport develops its terminal roofing system in response to capacity expansion, coastal climatic conditions, and regional identity.

How Did the Concept of Jakarta International Stadium Evolve?

Jakarta International Stadium (JIS) was designed to replace Lebak Bulus Stadium, with its new location established in the former Taman BMW area.

The relocation introduced several challenges, including high soil salinity, the need for public transportation integration, and efforts to preserve the surrounding green spaces.

As a result, the stadium's design emphasizes open spaces, accessibility, and Jakarta's cultural identity.

As the project developed, Jakarta International Stadium's planned capacity increased from approximately 40,000 to more than 80,000 spectators.

This expansion affected more than seating capacity. It also influenced grandstand design, structural systems, circulation routes, and evacuation planning to ensure the stadium could accommodate large crowds safely and efficiently.

This flexibility has subsequently enabled JIS to host major events beyond sporting competitions.

One example was the JIS Ramadhan Festival 2026, held on March 1, 2026, and attended by Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung.

During his visit, the Governor expressed his hope that JIS would become more connected with the community and provide broader benefits for residents of Tanjung Priok and surrounding areas.

Source: ANTARA News.

A similarly flexible approach to spatial programming can be observed at Quantis Club House, which evolved from a private clubhouse into a community sports hub.

Although the two projects differ in scale, both demonstrate that changes in building functions require corresponding adjustments to accessibility, zoning, and spatial structures.

Roof Technology and Structural Systems That Define Jakarta International Stadium's Flexibility

The roof and structural systems of Jakarta International Stadium (JIS) were designed as an integrated solution, allowing the venue to accommodate football matches and other large-scale events.

This flexibility is supported by a combination of movable roof technology, expansive structural spans, and natural ventilation strategies.

1. A Retractable Roof for Different Event Requirements

JIS features a retractable roof system that adapts to different stadium functions.

During football matches, the central roof section can be opened to allow sunlight and natural airflow to reach the playing field.

For concerts and other events, the roof can be closed to protect the main arena from rain while expanding the stadium's operational possibilities.

The system requires precise coordination between the operating mechanisms, rail tracks, primary structural components, lighting, sound equipment, catwalks, and maintenance access.

This integration ensures that all components operate safely and efficiently.

2. A Long-Span Structure That Defines the Stadium's Identity

The approximately 200-meter roof span is supported by eight reinforced concrete king posts, each reaching a height of approximately 70 meters.

This structural system was selected to reduce the need for exceptionally large cantilever structures while maintaining column-free spaces beneath the roof.

Beyond supporting roof loads, the king posts also serve as prominent visual elements that define JIS's distinctive silhouette in North Jakarta.

The entire structural system was designed to withstand wind loads, rainfall, and movements associated with roof operation through coordinated structural engineering and digital modeling.

3. ETFE and Natural Ventilation for Spatial Comfort

The central roof section incorporates approximately one hectare of transparent ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) material, allowing natural light to reach the playing field even when the roof is closed.

This material helps maintain grass quality while preserving a visual connection with outdoor lighting conditions.

Meanwhile, comfort within the spectator stands and concourse areas is supported by natural ventilation through the porous facade and operable roof.

Air circulates naturally throughout the stadium's expansive interior volume, while mechanical cooling is primarily used in specific enclosed areas such as VIP lounges, player changing rooms, and other specialized spaces.

This strategy supports efficient building performance without compromising user comfort.

The Architectural Identity of Jakarta International Stadium

Jakarta International Stadium's architectural identity is defined not only by its monumental scale but also by interpretations of Betawi culture expressed through its overall form, facade patterns, and color palette.

This approach gives the stadium a distinctive character while maintaining its relevance within contemporary architecture.

1. Betawi Cultural Inspiration in Building Form and Facade

The stadium's overall massing draws inspiration from the traditional headpiece worn by Betawi grooms, translated into a circular architectural form surrounding the spectator stands and playing field.

Meanwhile, the perforated facade patterns reinterpret the traditional Betawi gigi balang motif, commonly found in traditional Betawi houses.

These elements are combined with tiger-inspired patterns representing Persija's identity.

Beyond strengthening the stadium's visual character, the facade patterns also help regulate building porosity, create shading, and support natural air circulation throughout the stadium.

2. Colors That Reinforce the Stadium's Character

A gray and white color palette was selected to help the stadium's massing blend with Jakarta's skyline during the day.

At night, LED lighting transforms the structure into a prominent urban landmark.

Inside the stadium, orange and gray seating reinforces Persija's identity while enhancing the visual experience for spectators.

Roofing Materials That Support Modern Stadium Performance

Roofing material selection at Jakarta International Stadium responds to its extensive structural spans, coastal environmental conditions, and operational requirements.

The JIS roofing system uses COLORBOND® Steel with an XAL Aluminium Alloy 3105 H16 substrate, designed to provide corrosion resistance in more demanding environments, such as the coastal industrial area of Tanjung Priok.

In addition, the use of Off-White with a Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) of 86 helps reduce solar radiation absorption on the roof surface, contributing to the building's thermal comfort.

This material selection strategy is also part of the stadium's sustainable building approach, which contributed to achieving Greenship Platinum certification.

For stadiums and other public infrastructure projects, material selection must consider more than structural strength.

Roofing profiles, jointing systems, installation methods, maintenance requirements, and the surrounding environmental conditions must also be carefully evaluated.

Through this approach, the roof serves not only as a protective covering but also as an integral component of the structural system, climate-responsive design, and architectural identity.

To determine suitable materials, roofing profiles, and roofing systems for specific project requirements, architects and project teams can consult technical specialists to ensure the selected solutions align with the building's characteristics and site conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Jakarta International Stadium

The following questions summarize the stadium's key technical design considerations.

1. Why does Jakarta International Stadium use a retractable roof?

The operable roof allows the stadium to adapt to football matches, concerts, changing weather conditions, and the playing field's natural lighting and ventilation requirements.

2. What is the function of the eight king posts?

The king posts support the long-span roof structure, help transfer structural loads, and contribute to the stadium's distinctive architectural silhouette.

3. Why is ETFE used in the central roof section?

ETFE allows natural light to reach the playing field when other roof sections are closed, maintaining a connection between the main arena and natural daylight.

4. How does natural ventilation work at JIS?

Air enters through the perforated facade, circulates through concourse areas and spectator stands, and exits through higher-level openings and the operable roof.

5. How is Betawi cultural identity incorporated into the stadium's design?

Betawi identity is expressed through the building's overall form, inspired by traditional Betawi groom headwear, and through the gigi balang perforation patterns applied to the facade.

Article Sources

1. Steel Architectural Award

2. References to Steel Architectural Award 2024 Finalists from the COLORBOND® Steel Website

• GOR Djarum Magelang

• Indonesia Arena

• Raja Haji Fisabilillah International Airport

3. Related Articles from the COLORBOND® Steel Website

• Modern Stadium Design

• Quantis Club House

• ANTARA News