LA 2028 Olympic Flame Design at Sofi Stadium
Finding ways to create a healthy tension between human infrastructures and naturalistic design was a key idea throughout this process. The Olympics are a place and time to build global community and identity, threading us together for the duration of the games. Leaning into the idea of a common thread, that would unite athletes and spectators, led me to look at knots and nests. Contrasting organic natural curves with solid metal helps create fluidity with striking simplicity. The metal beam needed to be one continuous line like a thread. Branching down from the stadium roof and wrapping around the cauldron like a giant ribbon, before returning upwards.
Parade of the Athletes
Lighting of the Olympic Flame
Let the Games Begin!
To keep focus on the humanity of the games, the cauldron is elevated high above the field out of view during the parade of the athletes. A sea of people is parted as the cauldron is lowered for the torch ceremony, creating an opening for a small platform in the middle of the field. The torch bearer is slightly elevated amongst the crowd but is still one with the sea of people. Lifting the torch above their head will light a sparkle rope leading up to the cauldron. The flame is lit in an instant and glows brightly against the metal nest. The entire stadium is centered around the cauldron uniting the eyes of athletes, spectators, and viewers across the globe.