SPORTS CENTRE, ULSTER UNIVERSITY

Situated within the periphery of the campus, the new Ulster University sports centre offers modern facilities for both academics and the general public, providing amenities for a wide range of activities suitable for teams and individuals of all capabilities. Ideally located adjacent to the existing sport pitches, the building consists of two forms: A shimmering clad box which fades up into the skyline houses a large sports hall with low level glazing and long light glazing at high level. The second, a blue/black brick element, incorporates a fitness suite, office accommodation, strength & conditioning room and flexible spaces for fitness classes or seminars at first level. Importantly, the main office benefits not only from views over the landscaped campus but also glazed internal screens provide a visual link to activity in the neighbouring sports hall.

The ground floor primarily hosts spacious open plan male, female and team changing areas, serving both the fitness suite and the external pitches. Also located on the principal level are a steam room, sauna and valuable storage spaces. These areas revolve around a central spine circulation route, which when entered at the front elevation provides a view from the entrance, through the entire width of the building, to the pitches at the rear.  The material palette is a subtle nod to the university’s revitalised branding. Extensive panoramic glazing throughout provides an enticing and interacting relationship between the inside and outside  – the building, public, sport activities and nature. The building has been delivered to achieve the BREEAM Excellent Standard.