LaLa arena TOKYO-BAY

Sep. 13,2024
Sports and Entertainment FacilityIndoor Arena

Project Description

A Large New Multi-purpose Arena for Sports and Entertainment

In April 2024, LaLa arena TOKYO-BAY was completed in the Minami Funabashi area of Chiba Prefecture. This large multi-purpose arena hosts a wide range of events, including music concerts, basketball and other sporting events, and corporate exhibitions.
The spectator seating, which has a maximum seating capacity of approximately 10,000 and consists of arena seating and three-tiered stand seating, features a mortar-shaped design. From every seat, you feel close to the players and performers.
The arena is permanently equipped with a large 423-inch Center Vision that can be raised and lowered and three scrolling screens for powerful productions.
Kotobuki Seating supplied the Telescopic Platform for the first-floor arena and seating for the second through fourth-floor stands.

Seating Designed for Ease of Use by Both Visitors and Event Organizers

The LIMS (AR-1022) model was adopted as the common seating option for the Telescopic Platform and the stands. Both the backrest and seat are thin and supple yet ergonomically shaped to provide firm support when seated. The seat is wrapped in durable mesh and urethane for proper cushioning. The mesh is also highly breathable, preventing stuffiness caused by prolonged seating. All seats are equipped with drink holders for comfortable eating and drinking.
The Telescopic Platform, which seats approximately 2,200 people in all nine blocks of first-floor arena seating, can be deployed and retracted by simple remote control operation of the main unit. Seating can be quickly set up and taken down without requiring much manpower or effort. Only the seats, handrails, and other fixtures need to be manually set up and taken down.
Another feature of the system is its flexibility to accommodate a wide variety of event layouts. By adjusting the blocks that expand and retract, both center stage and end stage styles can be accommodated. When all the blocks are stored, they create a large flat floor space that can be used for exhibitions. In addition, some of the Telescopic Platforms for this arena are equipped with an intermediate tier specification that allows the user to stop at the intermediate tier instead of unfolding the entire tier of the main unit. This feature is a great fit for a multi-purpose arena, allowing adjustment of the arena floor area and number of seats according to the event.
The Telescopic Platform is deployed in a staircase configuration, which allows for a good line of sight and stand seating.

VIP Area for a Premium Spectating Experience

The third floor has VIP areas on the north and south sides, each with its own unique character. The north side features a luxurious VIP lounge and 11 VIP rooms, while the south side has a casual lounge and VIP boxes with a red-themed design.
The AllWe (VSS-011) model was selected as the balcony seat for the luxurious north VIP room. Each seat has a spacious width of 550 mm, allowing you to sit back and relax comfortably. The backrest and seat are both made of thick urethane to provide rich cushioning. The luxurious black upholstery is made of waterproof vinyl leather. Even if a drink or food is accidentally spilled, it can be easily wiped clean for easy maintenance.
The eight-room VIP BOX on the south side has an impressive interior with a basketball motif. Like the general seating, the balcony seats are equipped with the LIMS (AR-1022) model, which enhances the viewing experience in this exclusive area.

Facility Overview

LaLa arena TOKYO-BAY was conceived as a joint venture between two companies. It aligns with Mitsui Fudosan's vision of urban development, which leverages sports and entertainment, and MIXI's goal of achieving rich communication through sports.
The area is surrounded by commercial facilities and an indoor skating rink, and the addition of an arena that provides extraordinary sports and entertainment experiences will contribute to the creation of a lively community.
A sub-arena is also located adjacent to the main arena. It is also used for basketball and volleyball practice and, on event days, as a venue for merchandise sales.
The exterior design draws inspiration from Lalaport's port and jet aircraft. Its perforated aluminum panels resemble a ship's wake and jet streams, creating a dynamic aesthetic.

Project Summary

Location
Funabashi City, Chiba Map
Completed
Apr, 2024
Number of fixed seats
10,631
Client
TOKYO-BAY Arena Management Inc.
Design and construction
SHIMIZU CORPORATION