THE FLOAT: Rebirth from Sewage Treatment Plant to Ludan Public Sports Center

Shenzhen, China

Finalist, 2026 A+Awards, Sports & Recreation - Unbuilt Sports & Recreation

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THE FLOAT: Rebirth from Sewage Treatment Plant to Ludan Public Sports Center

Shenzhen, China

Finalist, 2026 A+Awards, Sports & Recreation - Unbuilt Sports & Recreation

Firm

Module Lab Architectural

STATUS

Concept

YEAR

2027

Transforming a site demands physical renovation, social perception reshaping and honoring its past. This project converts a decommissioned underground wastewater plant into a vibrant community sports center. The shift from utilitarian infrastructure to a public green facility is achieved through bold design and striking visual contrast. Circular Swimming Pool: Honoring the Past, Uniting the Community Beyond the requested courts, the design creates a social hub strengthening community bonds. Swimming is popular in southern Chinas climate. Reusing the circular sedimentation tank as a public pool preserves the plants memory. Circular skylights bathe it in natural light, fostering a softer, more relaxed atmosphere than regular pools and providing a healthy, lively neighborhood gathering space. Floating Cloud: From Dirty to Clean To change the local impression of a polluted, dark underground site, a new image of lightness and purity was introduced through cloud-like forms. Sustainable, lightweight white membrane covers the faade and roof over the sports fields. This floating cloud roof above a reflective water landscape responds to the nearby Shenzhen River and Hong Kong wetlands to craft an identity that is green, natural and pristine. At night, the faade becomes an illuminated landmark capable of projecting sports imagery, transforming a once-isolated area into an engaging evening destination. Sustainability: Economical Adaptive Reuse Prioritizing economy and sustainability, the original pool structure was retained and reused to cut demolition and earthwork costs. Green roofs merge with surrounding lawns into a tiered stormwater system, cooling and retaining rainwater for the hot, rainy climate. The double-skin faade pairs a lightweight STFE membrane with standard glazing, delivering striking aesthetics without complex supports. It enhances ventilation and shading, while the self-cleaning surface minimizes upkeep. The site transforms from isolated grey infrastructure into a natural, sustainable, vibrant community hub.