Architects: UAD
Area: 23124 m²
Year: 2022
Photographs: Qiang Zhao
Lead Architects: Danshen Dong, Zhoujin Mo
Architectural Design: Zhoujin Mo, Renyi Su, Jie Qu, Yajing Jiang, Zhaoyang Lu
Engineering: Zhejiang Zhongcheng Construction Co., Ltd.
Landscape: Architectural Design & Research Institute of Zhejiang University Co., Ltd. (UAD)
A Vision of Symbiotic Urban Spaces
In the realm of sports architecture at Shaoxing University, UAD envisions a harmonious symbiosis of people, buildings, and cities. Dong Danshen emphasizes that architecture is more than a mere container for human behaviors—it’s a catalyst, infusing spaces with vitality and flexibility.
Integrating Architecture into Daily Life
Rooted in the urban environment, buildings often become integral but unnoticed elements of daily life. UAD’s approach is to seamlessly integrate human, design, and natural elements into a unified context. This synthesis aims to create a cohesive theme and soul for the space.
Hexi Indoor Sports Field: Connecting City and Campus
Situated in the northwest corner of Shaoxing University, the Hexi Indoor Sports Field strategically engages with the old streets of Shaoxing City. UAD breaks through land constraints, establishing a sports center that fosters interaction between the city and the campus. Recognizing the significance of public sports facilities, the design envisions a space that promotes physical well-being, joyous interactions, and community building through sports.
Spatial Forms and Overcoming Land Scarcity
Addressing the challenge of limited land, the design overlays a large football field with other sports fields, creating a colossal roofed space. This “elevated floor” concept mirrors the open public spaces shaded by urban buildings, providing shelter from the sun and rain. The elevated floor transforms the sports field into an all-weather, external shared space.
Varied Functions and Flexible Borders
With basketball courts, volleyball courts, tracks, and extreme sports venues at the periphery, the center of the elevated floor houses badminton courts and exercise rooms. The flexible design blurs the boundaries of shared spaces, creating an inclusive environment without barriers.
Encouraging Engagement and Interaction
To cultivate a vibrant atmosphere, UAD adopts strategies promoting vitality, creativity, and teamwork. The absence of clear boundaries encourages users to move and interact freely. Thoughtfully planned paths and connections create a natural flow, while wooden-wrapped rest areas and interactive spaces foster shared experiences and mutual support.
Natural Elements and Sustainable Design
Retaining natural lighting and ventilation, the indoor environment prioritizes comfort and health. Natural elements seamlessly integrate with the sports field, coexisting with nature. The architectural shadows blend with natural shading, transforming the space into a dynamic and creative public arena.
UAD’s Hexi Indoor Sports Field transcends the conventional, aspiring to be not just a sports facility but a vibrant public space that stimulates growth, development, and community spirit within the city.
