Paperdome – Demountable Dome-structure

The Paperdome is a dismountable cardboard dome that has been assembled in various locations in the Netherlands since its inception in 2003. After being stored for an extended period, the dome has been repurposed. Starting in February 2025, it will function as a sports venue for youth in Amsterdam Zuidoost. Octatube Services meticulously inspected and checked all stored components of the dome and successfully reassembled it for the third time, demonstrating excellent circularity and sustainability. 

The Cardboard Dome

The Paperdome, designed by architect Shigeru Ban, was initially realised in 2004. The dome features an icosahedral shape, which ensures robustness and stability. It is constructed from cardboard tube profiles connected by steel joints, creating a span of 30 meters that can withstand Dutch weather conditions. A fabric cover is stretched over the cardboard tubes.

Dismountable

The dome’s bolted connections make it fully dismountable. The Paperdome was the first cardboard project that Octatube executed in collaboration with Shigeru Ban. This unique project was initiated in 2003 by choreographer Jeanette van Steen and served as a theater for six weeks in IJburg, Amsterdam. After a year in storage, it was reassembled in Leidsche Rijn, Utrecht, in the summer of 2004, as a multifunctional space for the VINEX district. In 2012, the dome was dismantled and placed into storage once again.

After more than a decade in storage, the Paperdome has found a new destination. Beginning in February 2025, this iconic cardboard dome will function as a sports venue for youth in Amsterdam Zuidoost. Thanks to the collaboration with the Municipality of Amsterdam, Stichting 3×3 UNITES, Stichting Hart voor de Buurt, and other partners, the dome will be a dedicated space for youth sports activities.

Want to know more about the Paperdome? Visit the Octatube website.