A landscaped earthen podium forms a strong base from which a circular roof rises like a metallic saucer, articulated by a rhythmic sequence of triangular segments. An open concourse ring remains between the planted base and the roof, while public programmes face the entrance plaza and canal toward Maksimir Park. In the survey area, the buildings are linked by a central pedestrian axis, while the Borongaj garage is embedded within a berm with a rooftop pitch. Canals, riverwalks and park routes extend the recreational system toward the park.

For the second round, the jury established additional evaluation criteria. These included the urban concept, the quality and feasibility of the proposal, the integration of buildings and public spaces, and the organisational and formal qualities of the individual buildings, with particular emphasis on the stadium proposal.

Generic or overly expressive structures that strongly defined the stadium’s identity but presented significant challenges in terms of construction or cost were considered less appropriate to the programme and context. The same applied to high-maintenance materials and an excessive reliance on vegetation within the stadium.

The possibility of phased construction was also an important criterion for elimination, while the jury continued to recognise the architectural quality of the programme’s articulation.