While the land "Down Under" celebrated Australia Day, the real men (and women) at work have been tennis players! The two-week long Australian Open is being wrapped up today, January 29, 2012, in Melbourne, Australia. The final matches of this Grand Slam tennis event are being played at Rod Laver arena, part of the Melbourne Park complex.
Completed in 1987 by Peddle Thorp Architects, the arena was one of the first to incorporate a retractable roof. Two roof sections, each with "arched trusses," can be rolled apart in about 20 minutes. Since that time, the technology has advanced. The roof of the 2012 Super Bowl stadium, Lucas Oil Stadium, can move from sideline to sideline in about nine minutes.
Join us for a look at other Big Buildings Designed for Sports and Entertainment. And, while you're at it, also take a look at the Architecture in Australia and New Zealand.
Source: History, Rod Laver Arena.
Photo copyright Robert Prezioso / Getty Images.
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