A look at Sochi’s best new buildings

 The 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi have been plagued with controversy from the onset and that has been especially true from a development standpoint. Journalist have tweeted reports of tarp ceilings, lobby-less hotels, and tap water that has “something very dangerous” in it. But setting all that controversy aside, here is a round-up of Sochi’s best new buildings.

Fischt Olympic Stadium

Fischt Olympic Stadium

Back in 2009, sports facilities firm Populous was tapped to create Sochi’s new facilities. But the firm’s crown jewel is Fischt: a 40,000-seat stadium inspired by Fabergé eggs, according to Curbed. Named for nearby Mount Fischt, the structure boasts a semi-clear, bi-winged polycarbonate “shell” roof supported by some 8,000 tons of steel.

Shayba Arena

Shayba Arena

Shayba (“hockey puck” in Russian) Arena, a 7,000-seat hockey facility, cost some $27.2 million to build. But unfortunately for Sochi, the International Ice Hockey Federation is considering moving to another Russian city following the Olympics.

The Bolshoy Ice Dome

The Bolshoy Ice Dome

After spending some $180.1 million, the Bolshoy Ice Dome, a 12,000-seat arena, wrapped up construction in 2012. The developer, Russian firm SIC Mostovik, said it was inspired by the “precious Easter gift of the Russian emperor’s family.”

Adler Arena Skating Center

Adler Arena Skating Center

Adler Arena sits at the center of what’s known as the Coastal Cluster of Olympic Park, according to Curbed. The $32.8 million facility opened in 2012 to host the Russian Speed Skating Championships, and most recently it hosted the World Single Distance Speed Skating Championships in March. The architect wanted the building to have a crystalline look, with transparent walls and triangular stained-glass windows. [Curbed] –Christopher Cameron