Project Concept, Context, and Structural Character
This project was designed as an inclusive space where individuals with disabilities can engage in sports such as boccia, goalball, climbing, and adaptive dance. The core idea is not only to provide physical accessibility but also to create an environment where users can socialize, feel safe, and express themselves freely. Accessibility here is approached not as a set of technical standards, but as an integrated spatial and experiential quality.
At the heart of the building lies a wide, circular ramp that connects all levels and acts as a central circulation spine. As users move upward through the building along this gentle spiral, they also experience a strong sense of spatial continuity and openness. Surrounded by transparent glass façades, the structure allows natural light to flood into all activity areas, enhancing the feeling of clarity and spaciousness while also supporting energy efficiency. Open-plan and flexible interiors accommodate a range of physical and sensory needs, making the building adaptable to different users and programs.
Everyday Life from a User’s Perspective
Every time I arrive at the sports center, I feel a familiar sense of excitement. As I pass through the spacious entrance and begin to move up the circular ramp, I feel like the space is embracing me. The echoing sounds from the goalball court and the shifting silhouettes in the dance studio behind the glass bring the building to life… Every corner offers a new experience.
Today we have boccia training. I meet up with my teammates around the central ramp. Some of us use wheelchairs, others white canes… but here, we are all equals. This place reminds us that barriers exist not in space, but in mindset. After training, I glance over at the climbing wall. Maybe today I’ll push my limits a bit further. This center is more than just a building; it is a space where being yourself and moving together freely is always possible.
