A significant project by leading architecture firm ArchiCentre, the Estuari Sports Centre is a new sports facility in Iskandar Puteri, Malaysia. Sprawling across 13,279 m², the building features a series of distinctive structures. Arranged over two levels, the building is formed by two large open volumes at lower ground and upper levels, which sandwich a transparent see-through public entry space.
According to the architects, the building is designed to accommodate different functions held in a private club setting, including get-together activities for the local community, indoor and outdoor sports, a swimming pool, martial arts studio, a multipurpose room, a gym and yoga room, a sauna, and other facilities. Furthermore, it will cater to conferences, exhibitions, and weddings. Outdoor facilities include the FINA-compliant swimming pool and Tennis courts for international tournaments such as the ATP Malaysian Open & SUKMA Johor.
“The North and West facades are designed with large folded louvered walls to allow for wind flows and contemplation of the central park from the main entrance. The East and South elevations are instead blind and oriented respectively towards a sloping green area and the lake view,” the architects explain. “The large cantilevered roof overhangs the louvers wrapped over clay brick walls. The perforated walls are lined with bricks in different directions to protect and shade the interior from the elements. It also shields the main hall from direct sun during midday, in order to reduce the cost of ventilation and cooling.”
One of the other notable features is the structural grid which is clearly visible and defines the interiors with a lightweight sculptural ceiling and complementary roof. Along with the facade, the sport complex is easily recognisable by the shape of the unique roof with diamond-shaped glass and the origami folded facade, creating a distinctive and iconic outlook that stands out prominently.
