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The Decaying Stadium

There is beauty in decay, and the Miami Marine Stadium is a great example of just that. The iconic structure, which frames views of downtown Miami, has been sitting in a state of decomposition for nearly two decades now, and the graffiti artists have closed in.

The Stadium was built in 1964, under the direction of young Cuban designer Hilario Candela. Considered a masterpiece of design, it was made entirely of poured concrete and features a dramatically cantilevered folded-plate roof.

Its original function was as a venue for watching power boating racing, but it also served as a location for concerts and other community events.

In 1992, Hurricane Andrew hit, causing an estimated $2-3 million worth of damage to the structure. Damage that, to date, has not been repaired. Some have said the building should be condemned, others that the damage is only superficial.

In the meantime, every inch of the decaying surface has been covered with graffiti, making it an unlikely urban art gallery.

Today, due to popular demand, the City is making plans to renovate the Virginia Key area, and with it the Marine Stadium. Some pictures (top and below) give an idea of what it might look like. RM

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