The South Australian Sports Institute will soon have a purpose-built facility for the first time, with the state government announcing funding for a $49 million building in Mile End, west of Adelaide’s CBD.
Designed by local firm Studio Nine Architects, the building will include a strength and conditioning gym capable of accommodating multiple sports and teams, a specially designed indoor court with smart technology, sport-specific ergometer training zones and an environment chamber for simulated heat, humidity and altitude stress training.
The architects said the brief required the design to focus on community, activation and connection across the neighbouring underutilized sites and visibility from the main arterial road.
“The building form and footprint draws inspiration from the strength of the bicep muscle and tendons, creating a new iconic gateway facility for the city of Adelaide,” Studio Nine said in a statement.
“The facade takes a modular approach with the panels intended to be prefabricated off site. Applied in a sweeping gesture, the depth of the panels offers articulation and sun protection, following the curve of the building.
“At pedestrian level the façade engages with the ground plain, activating the frontage. Sweeping up, a bridge is formed creating a thoroughfare and link from the existing Netball SA Stadium across to SA Athletics Stadium. The previously disused passage is now activated and transformed into a revitalised and key aspect of the now unified precinct.”
The institute has previously operated out of a former high school in Kidman Park.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
