In a pioneering cooperation between Arch and Carabiner, the Western Australian Institute of Sport (Wais) was reinterpreted as an institution that not only serves elite -sporting performance, but also embodies the essence of human potential.
In this interview, Stephen Cheney, National Sports Facilities Specialist at Arch, shares the design trip behind this state -of -the -art project, which seamlessly merges the aesthetic form with high -performance function.
From concept to construction, every detail was carefully shaped by a uniform “one team” philosophy to ensure that the center supports the physical, psychological and social needs of athletes and experts.
Architecture & Design: What were the most important design principles or inspiration of the institute's architecture concept, especially in the reflection of human potential?
Stephen Cheney: The design of the wais is inspired by the human body; It imitates human build from the skeleton over the skin and muscle shape and expresses the beauty and abilities of the human body.
With its functional aspects, it offers athletes of all skills and supports academic exchange and sports science, which reflects the broad potential of human skills.
The use of spatial strategies, in particular through large internal emptiness that combine core training areas with administrative areas, promotes cooperation and a sense of community promoted in the building.
How did you take the challenge to compensate for aesthetic beauty with the complex technical requirements of a high -performance sports device?
The specific selection of materials looked at both the visual and tactile aspects with the strategic positioning of technical rooms, such as the high -rise rooms, therapy pools and laboratories, which are more part of the narrative than isolated service zones.
Close cooperation in the early phase of planning and design with sports scientists, athletes of all skills and facility managers was the key. This was always a uniform “one team” approach.
To what extent does the building design support the physical and psychological needs of elite athletes?
The philosophy of “One Team” Planning and Design Philosophy took into account the relaxation, rehabilitation and injury management of the elite. This approach enabled both a functional and a calming aspect in the entire facility to support holistic physical well -being.
The design language symbolizes the connection and excellence, reinforces identity, pride and performance of athletes, creates a feeling of openness and access to daylight. At the same time, the layout promotes random interactions and holds people socially and supports.
Were there unique materials or construction techniques with which the specific requirements of the furnishings meet?
The wais facade presented some challenges to imitate the muscular forms – we decided to use fiber optic plates built by a boat builder. The therapy and restoration pools required advanced sealing and mechanical systems.
The integration of a heat exchange system together with special tree methods for creating airtight and pressure -controlled environments was essential to offer durability to the furnishings.
How did feedback from athletes and employees influence their perception of the success of the building in achieving its goals?
Our customer's feedback was extremely positive. The internal planning of the center was to facilitate “a team” and promote cooperation.
Designing transparent interactions between athletes, coaches, scientists, members of the health professions and the management of institutions was essential, and this was successful with remarkable achievements at the Olympic Games in Paris and Paralympics.
Pictures: Wais by Robert Frith, Darren Smith, Acorn Photo / Delivery