Olympiastadion Berlin: Finding a Seat for All

Just as a society changes, Olympiastadion Berlin must embrace change and create conditions that correspond to reality and welcome all members of society. Spaces for wheelchair users has been increased providing better visibility for everyone. The stadium now has 228 spaces for wheelchairs whereas previously there were 168, that is 36% more capacity in total than before.

Easy Access Seats are another new modern touch. These seats cater for people with permanent or temporary mobility restrictions, such as pregnant women, elderly people or people with a broken leg. There is a total of 348 Easy Access Seats or at least 174 seats if patrons are accompanied by another person or carer. A special feature of these seats is that there isn’t a row of seats directly in front of them. The extra space provides generous leg room and options such as accommodating walking aids, assistance dogs etc. Easy Access Seats are located directly at the respective block entrances, no stairs need to be used and the distance to amenities and toilets is minimized.

When it comes to toilets, not only people with disabilities benefit from the modernization, but everyone in general. There has been an increase in the number of accessible toilets by 250%. All toilet facilities in the lower ring of the stadium were redesigned and converted and two "toilets for all" with lifting facilities for people with complex disabilities have been installed. Furthermore, 24 gender-neutral toilets are now also available at three locations.