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PROJECT REPORT: SPORTS & LEISURE FACILITIES


STACKED SAVINGS


The stacked layout enabled GT3 to make the most of the 9,000 m2


community gardens on the roof Images © GT3 Architects & Kristen McCluskie site, and include 3G football pitches and


general site fl exibility but purposefully make the centre more accessible to a broader range of users,” says Gowdridge. “Along with a coherent visual identity, Makaton combines symbols and signs with speech, making navigation and information easier to understand.” Improved and simplifi ed wayfi nding was further achieved by exclusion of barriers for entering the facility, and simply “providing a strong, consistent visual identity,” adds Gowdridge. “Using a combination of colour, texture and clear signage helps users – including those with dementia, physical or cognitive differences – better orient themselves and move confi dently through the facility.” These decisions were in part infl uenced by community input to prioritise circulation,


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signage and spatial hierarchy to overall improve navigation around the facility. The studios, pool area and sports hall all include optional, moveable privacy screens and walls which allows the spaces to be tailored to groups of varying sizes and needs. A moveable pool fl oor in the learner pool means it can be used for different activities such as private school lessons, user-group classes, baby/young children sessions or aquafi t classes. The sports courts feature LED-lit court lines to improve visibility for users with visual impairments, making them safer as well as more inclusive. The centre’s colour palette was also carefully considered, with colours denoting different zones. “Throughout the social, transitional and wet leisure spaces, there is


ADF SEPTEMBER 2025


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