PRIMO PREMIO New International Multipurpose Sports Complex at Triolet-Mauritius | massimo lovera

Concept The goal of this project is to create a sports centre which is able to enhance the harmony of the local context. Following this aim we have chosen to combine as much as possible the logic of contemporary and international design (distributions functional and energy efficient behaviour of the building) with the dictates of the most ancient doctrine of Vastu Shastra *. Placement of access, placement of the main internal activities, orientation of the main flow of natural air, choice of colours, all of these aspects contribute to the achievement of a harmonious design. By formal point of view, we have treated the roof as if it were a sheet of origami in order to create a light and airy shape that is easily recognizable by the visitor and to let the image of which lead back to the lightness and dynamism typical of sporting activities that take place in its internal. Basically, the main building comprises the Sports Hall with related facilities on its main side, the North-East one. The main activity zone is protected from direct sun during the hottest hours of the day and from the rain thanks a relevant overhang of the main roof. An open covered mezzanine allows visitors to watch different sports (badminton, squash and the main court's activities) protected by sun and rain. This particular "loisir" is in continuity with the terrace of the coffee area that is above the main entrance. The building is rectangular in shape with its longer axis oriented more or less, in the South East-North West direction. All facilities are planned on ground floor only, except for the stands and the “régie” room and the Vip lounge that is provided of an access and elevator own. The big overhang of the main roof, permit to embrace all the different activities in an organic composition. The mirror effect of the false ceiling emphasizes the dynamic characteristic that is the dominant aspect of the centre, and gives always changeable and unpredictable new perspective at the visitors, while they change their point of view. Most of the facilities related to the Sports Hall, changing room, toilets, stores, etc are located under the stands in order to achieve a cost effective design. The Sports Hall has been designed so that it meets international standards in terms of court dimensions, height, spill over areas, floor finishes, lighting and ventilation. The height of the building is dictated by the minimum height of 12.5 metres above the playing surface of volley ball courts as required by the FIVB for international competition.