Manchester United have finally unveiled their ambitious new plans to build a new stadium – and have enlisted one of the world’s best architects to oversee it.
Norman Foster, 89, has been tasked with bringing United’s new stadium to life and regenerating the surrounding area, in a project which Manchester mayor Andy Burnham claims could be ‘bigger and better than London 2012.’
But the Stockport-born architect is no stranger to pressure, having designed some of the world’s most iconic buildings along with stadiums such as Wembley and Barcelona’s Camp Nou.
Widely considered a living legend for his bold, futuristic designs, the new United stadium could be one of Foster’s crowning achievements to date, transforming not just the football club’s fortunes but that of the entire surrounding area.
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Alongside his plans for Old Trafford, Foster has also drawn up a masterplan for the areas around the grounds in the Salford Quays, which includes homes and workspaces ‘which will benefit the local community’.
The stadium meanwhile, will feature a public plaza which is reportedly ‘twice the size of Trafalgar Square’ and three 200m-high masts – described as ‘the trident’ – to support the lightweight roof.
Describing his vision for the new stadium, Foster said: ‘It starts with the idea of making something which is so intense it brings you close to the pitch. Acoustically it cultivates the roar.
‘As you move away from the stadium, it is not a fortress surrounded by a sea of cars. It’s contained by an umbrella that harvests solar energy and rainwater and encloses arguably the largest public space in the world.’
The Gherkin (30 St Mary Axe), London
Arguably his most famous building, The Gherkin is Norman Foster’s love letter to London’s skyline. Completed in 2004, this iconic glass tower is as functional as it is beautiful. Its distinctive curved shape isn’t just for show—it’s a masterstroke of energy efficiency, designed to reduce wind turbulence and maximize natural light.
The building’s spiraling glass panels create a stunning visual effect, while its open-plan interior fosters collaboration and creativity. As Foster himself put it, ‘The Gherkin is a building that changes with the light, reflecting the sky and the city around it.’
But the Gherkin isn’t just a pretty face. Its innovative design includes a series of atriums that allow natural ventilation, reducing the need for air conditioning. The building’s energy consumption is half that of a traditional skyscraper, making it a pioneer in sustainable design. It’s not just a skyscraper; it’s a symbol of London’s modernity and ambition.
The Gherkin has become a cultural icon, appearing in films, postcards, and even video games. It’s a testament to Foster’s ability to create architecture that is both groundbreaking and deeply connected to its urban context.
Reichstag Building, Berlin
Foster’s redesign of the Reichstag in 1999 is a powerful fusion of history and innovation. The addition of a glass dome atop the historic German parliament building is both a visual marvel and a symbol of transparency in government.
Visitors can walk up the dome’s spiraling ramps and look down into the legislative chamber, a design choice that Foster described as ‘a metaphor for openness and democracy.’ The dome also reflects natural light into the building, reducing energy consumption.
The project was not without its challenges, as Foster had to balance the need to modernize the building with the responsibility of preserving its historical significance. The original 19th-century facade was meticulously restored, while the interior was completely reimagined to meet the needs of a modern parliament.
The result is a building that respects its past while embracing the future. The Reichstag’s dome has become a must-see attraction, drawing millions of visitors each year. It’s a perfect example of how his work can bridge the gap between history and modernity.
Wembley Stadium, London
Wembley Stadium is more than just a sports venue—it’s a national icon. Foster’s 2007 redesign transformed it into one of the most impressive stadiums in the world.
The 133-meter-tall arch is the centerpiece, not only providing structural support but also becoming a defining feature of London’s skyline. The arch eliminates the need for obstructive columns, ensuring that all 90,000 spectators have an unobstructed view of the action. Foster described the project as ‘a celebration of sport and community,’ and it’s easy to see why.
The stadium’s retractable roof and state-of-the-art facilities make it a versatile venue for football, concerts, and other events. But it’s the emotional connection that sets Wembley apart. For many, it’s a place of dreams, where history is made and memories are forged.
City Hall, London
London’s City Hall, completed in 2002, is a bold statement of civic pride and sustainability. Its unusual, bulbous shape isn’t just eye-catching—it’s designed to reduce surface area and improve energy efficiency.
The building’s spiral ramp, inspired by the Guggenheim Museum, encourages interaction and openness among staff and visitors. Foster described it as ‘a building that reflects the transparency and accessibility of modern government.’
City Hall’s design also incorporates a range of eco-friendly features, including a ground-source heat pump and solar panels.
The building’s orientation minimizes solar gain, reducing the need for air conditioning. Inside, the open-plan layout fosters collaboration and innovation, reflecting the dynamic nature of city governance.
Battersea Power Station, London
One of London’s most beloved landmarks, Foster’s renovation of Battersea Power Station has breathed new life into this historic icon.
Originally designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, the power station was transformed into a mixed-use development under Foster’s guidance, preserving the building’s iconic chimneys and Art Deco details while introducing modern elements like luxury apartments, offices, and public spaces.
The restoration was a famously monumental undertaking, requiring meticulous attention to detail and a deep respect for the building’s history.
The result is a vibrant hub that honors the past while embracing the future, which has seen the power station’s vast turbine halls repurposed as retail and event spaces, while the surrounding area has been redeveloped into a thriving neighborhood.
Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, Kazakhstan
Located in the Kazakh capital of Astana, the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation is a striking pyramid designed to symbolize unity and harmony.
Completed in 2006, the building is a cultural and spiritual center, housing a concert hall, museum, and library. Its glass facade reflects the vast Kazakh steppe, while its interior is bathed in natural light.
The pyramid’s apex is crowned with a stained-glass window featuring doves, a universal symbol of peace. Inside, the spaces are designed to promote dialogue and understanding, reflecting the building’s mission as a center for global harmony.
Foster described the pyramid’s design as ‘a timeless form that transcends cultural boundaries,’ and the Palace is widely seen as a testament to his ability to create architecture that is both meaningful and magnificent.
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