(BEIJING, December 25) -- National Stadium, otherwise known as the "Bird's Nest" is located at the heart of the cluster of Olympic Green structures. An undulating form minimizes the vastness of this nest-like venue. From the outside, the stadium framework appears clean and simple. The stadium's complexity lies in the framework components, which mutually support one another and create a grid-like formation -- like a bird's nest of interwoven twigs.

The stadium's design meets all of the functional and technical requirements of an Olympic Stadium. Its unique spatial effect is at once radical and simple, resulting in a distinctive landmark building for the 2008 Olympics.

The synthesis of the geometries of the stadium and the stadium's foundation bed is comparable to the union of a tree and its roots. Visitors to the stadium will walk on latticed slate walkways that extend from the stadium's framework. In the space between the walkways, visitors will find sunken gardens, stone plazas, bamboo groves, mineral hillscapes and openings into the foundation bed.

The stadium's foundation bed rises gradually from the ground's surface, and the entrance to the stadium is likewise slightly raised, providing a panorama of the entire Olympic Green venue complex.

National Stadium is weatherproof, thanks to translucent membrane covering the open spaces in the framework of the stadium. Because all the attached amenities, including restaurants, hotel, shops and restrooms, are self-contained, the stadium does not have to be a solid, enclosed structure. This design makes possible natural ventilation for the stadium -- an important aspect of the stadium's environmentally friendly design.

Inside the stadium, a symmetrical "bowl" will house exciting competitions and stimulate the crowd's enthusiasm while and prompting athletes to perform their best.

The stands have minimal interruption for a seamless and consistent outer appearance. In addition, the acoustic ceiling conceals the stadium's framework so that the focus will be on the activities on the field.

For more information about National Stadium, please visit its official website (www.n-s.cn).