Rafa Nadal Academy

The project involved the design, development, integration, and commissioning of a high-performance HVAC and control system for the Hypogeum—the underground space where Real Madrid’s retractable natural grass pitch is stored when not in use. The system needed to recreate Alpine spring conditions for the turf’s growth and health during storage, regardless of the season.

The Santiago Bernabéu Hypogeum
The hypogeum is an underground chamber beneath the stadium that houses the retractable pitch when not in use. The field is split into six massive trays, each transported by automated trolleys into the hypogeum in about six hours. This system frees up 8,000 m² for multipurpose events, allowing the stadium to seamlessly switch between sports and entertainment uses.