STACKABLE SPORTS
07 Dec 2016
A ‘stackable’ sports centre has become the answer to flexibility and expandability for the town of Almere in Amsterdam with a newly completed swim centre that offers more than just the standard pool.
Across from the existing top sports centre, in the green field development Olympia Kwartier, a new indoor sports centre has been realised based on the 2521 Simply Swimming concept. This concept incorporates a high level of flexibility and expandability. The municipality of Almere has shown interest in the stacked version of the concept adding complementary functions such as sports halls and club rooms on top of the 2521 swimming pool.
The dimension of the pool in combination with a partly movable pool floor increases the flexibility and functionality of the swimming pool. Due to the clever floor plan with its compact layout and visual connections, the building can be operated more efficiently. Supporting functions, like changing rooms, offices and club rooms are positioned on the mezzanine floor. This floor also serves as a climatological buffer between the high temperature and humidity of the pool and the cooler climate in the sports hall. One of the principles of the 2521 concept is completely building above ground, eliminating the long building time and complexity that is associated with excavating the filter basement and basin. A wide range of sustainability measures including very high thermal insulation, innovative water treatment and building services installations ensure large reductions in operational costs. The ground floor level is mainly occupied by technical installations, however the main entrance and the adjacent commercial space create an open gesture toward the exterior surroundings.
The entrance gives access to an inviting central staircase that circles around the elevator shaft. On each floor this 'core' is expanded with a zone that houses facilitating functions. On the ground floor the core gives access to the main entrance; on the second floor to the reception, cafeteria and pool hall; on the fourth floor to the changing area, martial arts hall and club rooms; on the fifth floor to the sports hall and finally on the sixth floor to the spectator stands. In accordance with the 2521 concept, the interior of the complex is finished with a combination of fresh, functional finishes combined with warm wooden walls and ceiling surfaces for a warm but athletic aesthetic.
The basic 2521 consists of a plinth upon which is stacked the volume containing the pool hall, cafeteria and changing rooms. Due to the large upper volume, a cantilever is created. The volumes appear to be two separate boxes that are stacked on top of each other. Interior spaces within the building are connected through large window openings in the facade with the public outside space.
The lower box, the buildings' plinth, is clad in robust anthracite fibre-cement panels. The floors above are clad in white profiled-metal panels. This creates an interesting play of shadows and adds another layer to the geometry of the building. Thanks to its powerful geometry, its public character and contemporary materialisation, the indoor sports centre provides a strong presence in the Olympia Kwartier area.