Photography: Lorena Darquea Architectural Photogragphy

A few decades ago, Managua, Nicaragua lost a huge part of its patrimony due to two earthquakes. There were left only a few testimonies that speak about the city. Rebuilding the vision of the city has been gradual and in this process, elements have been incorporated with the intention of adding Icons that constitute the new identity of Nicaraguans.

Cultural and sporting venues are symbols of public architecture, big spaces that houses and reunite society around one remarkable and massive event. The project Polideportivo Alexis Argüello is a multi-purpose building whose flexible nature allows every kind of activity.

The building can host an audience of 8, 000 spectators. It was developed with a concrete and steel structure that due to its modulated frames in all directions allows a 6,833 m² open-plan floor that gives flexibility to the different uses and activities of the space and optimizes interior visibility. A corrugated sheet with fiberglass insulation system was used on the building’s roof to dissipate the effect of UV rays and thus generate greater comfort inside the building.

As part of the Luis Alfonso Velázquez II Park, the orientation is ideal because of its condition of open space that permits operation of the building without needing air conditioner system, according to prevailing winds. Its relationship with the environment turns the place into a focal point in the park where is also located the Centro Acuático Michelle Richardson.

With a strong rational image, understands the architectural value of the buildings in its surrounding context, and suggest new designs for this context. Architecture of pure and basic principles, of simple understanding and timeless presence, the Polideportivo Alexis Argüello represents the new nature of the cityscape, a landmark for society that manifests the qualities and virtues of cultural and sporting activities loud and clear.