Porosity is carried from the masterplan into the stadium architecture, conceived as a compact volume beneath a lightweight mesh-like envelope of ETFE cushions. Radial steel ribs and secondary rings form an airy roof and open concourses with views toward Maksimir Park and the city. In the survey area, the sports buildings are connected by a continuous system of plazas, green corridors and pedestrian routes, while the complex extends southward toward the future Borongaj transport hub.

In the first round, the jury reviewed all submitted proposals. Following an examination of the individual projects and an internal discussion, the jury eliminated proposals that, in its opinion, lacked sufficient coherence in their urban approach, design concept or feasibility.

Projects without a sufficiently specific identity were also considered less successful, as were proposals with a less convincing relationship to the city and those characterised by excessive scale or demanding maintenance requirements.