Design year: 2017.06-2019.09
Completion year: 2023.08
Chief Architect: Zhaoqing Song, Jinkai Cai
Chief Designer: Rui Qiang
Design team: Dan Guo, Minqi Wu
Project location: Shanghai, China
Gross built area:7000㎡
Photo credit: Xi Yu
Partner: Interior/Landscape/Lighting Design: China Architecture Shanghai Design and Research Institute
Facade Design: Shanghai Fuhe Curtain Wall Design Co., Ltd.
Client: Dahua Group
In the post-pandemic era, the design of sports centers has evolved to emphasize not only their athletic functions but also their roles as urban connection points and public life hubs. Gucun Sports Center, located in Baoshan District, Shanghai, exemplifies this new approach. Once part of the Baoshan Industrial Zone, the area has been transformed from an industrial landscape into a recreational sports park. This shift reflects the broader urbanization trends, where old factories and docks along the Panjing River have been repurposed to serve the community's recreational needs.
The design of Gucun Sports Center breaks away from traditional enclosed sports facilities by incorporating multi-level walkways and open spaces that blend seamlessly with the surrounding park. This "mountain trail" concept features large spectator steps, ramps, suspension bridges, and platforms, creating a dynamic and open environment. These elements connect various indoor and outdoor sports areas, such as the ground-floor climbing and swimming areas with the second-floor badminton and fitness centers. The second-floor terrace serves as a 24/7 public viewing platform, integrating with the park's jogging paths and forming a comprehensive, open sports space system that encourages continuous public engagement.
Reimagining the site's industrial past, the design of Gucun Sports Center features large steel trusses that create grand spectator steps and urban viewing platforms. Instead of concealing these structures with metal panels, the designers used semi-transparent metal mesh to subtly highlight the industrial aesthetic. This approach pays homage to the site's history while maintaining a contemporary look. The building's geometric lines and use of steel trusses evoke the industrial heritage of the area, creating a modern space that connects with its historical roots and enhances the vitality of the park.