Architecture  ·  Buildings

Effortlessly Eclectic

July 20, 2023

words by Joel Wong | images courtesy of H.LinHo

Crafted by the team at Archicentre, the Estuari Sports Complex, located within the affluent Estuari township is a highly authentic design experience that finds a balance between functionality and aesthetics.

As one of the main focal points within the 387- acre Estuari township, the sprawling 13,000m2 Estuari Sports Centre is an integrated sports complex that makes up part of the 1,247-acre Puteri Harbour in the southern state of Johor. 

Arranged over two levels, the sports facility building comprises of five indoor and outdoor tennis courts, five badminton courts and two squash courts, a 50-metre Olympic-sized pool compliant with FINA standards, yoga, aerobic and spinning studios, a pool café, a martial arts studio, a rock-climbing wall, and more.

Designed by the accomplished Ar. Dr. Tan and his team at Archicentre, the Estuari Sports Complex is a narrative in which aesthetics and functionality work hand in hand to provide an intrinsic quality that is able to bring out the distinct element of the space. 

With both its structural grid and the distinctive roof design, the Estuari Sports Complex stands out among the skyline of the Estuari township. Clad in a light brick surface, the structural form provides a stark contrast to the natural environment in the background without overshadowing it. Along with an irregular and unique roof design; the distinctive origami-shaped roof is visible both inside and outside the building, imbuing a layer of character to this sports complex. 

Building the venue’s reputation as a world- class sports hub and training centre, the North and West facades are designed with large louvred walls to allow for uninterrupted wind flow as well as a sprawling view of the Central Park from the main entrance. The East and South elevations offer detailed views, especially oriented respectively towards a sloping green area and the lake view.

Upon entering the building, the team designed a transparent entry space, utilizing the two large open volumes at the lower ground and upper floors. The space is complemented by a series of diamond-shaped openings which penetrate the ceiling and provide much-needed natural lighting into the complex.

Using warm and cold surfaces to provide another level of detail – with perforated raw clay brickwork interspersed with black steelwork, the team’s use of texture and layering allow for the surfaces to breathe, while also offering an aesthetically pleasing look to the interior spaces. Functionally, this design choice also works to shield the main hall from direct sun during midday, in order to reduce the cost of ventilation and cooling.

Crafting a design narrative that befits a sports complex of this calibre, the team at Archicentre has created a highly authentic design experience that finds a balance between practicality and aesthetics, while sitting proudly within the affluent Estuari township.

Archicentre’s architecture embraces and interprets regionalism in a modern context. In a rapidly changing world landscape, Archicentre believes that well designed buildings create value and great experiences for all its users. As such it strives to find the balance that can create the requisite break-through experience. Working from the basis of DNAs and typologies, Archicentre has managed to interpret and translate simple regional metaphors into its increasingly Green architecture. Archicentre was established in 1994 and their works are widely published and they have received numerous Architectural Awards for their projects.

For more information, please visit archicentre.com.my