arched structural canopy outlines indoor sports field at shaoxing university in china by UAD

UAD designs Hexi Indoor Sports Field at Shaoxing University 

The Hexi Indoor Sports Field at Shaoxing University, designed by UAD, integrates seamlessly into the bustling urban environment of Shaoxing City in China. Located in the northwest corner of the campus, the sports field is adjacent to the old streets of the city, creating a space that interacts with both the campus and the urban landscape.

The project addresses land scarcity by overlapping the football field with other sports facilities, forming a large, roofed space. This elevated floor concept creates a public space beneath, akin to the shaded areas formed by urban buildings. The design uses minimalistic, rustic elements to provide shelter and usability throughout changing seasons.

The elevated floor becomes the core of the project, transforming the space below into an all-weather, shared area. Basketball and volleyball courts, along with a 50-meter track and extreme sports venues, are located at the ends of the building. Badminton courts, exercise rooms, and martial arts venues, which require climate control, are situated in the center, separated by walls.

Arches and curved beams dominate the structural design, creating a motif that shapes both the building’s appearance and its internal partitions. This flexible boundary design blurs the lines between different functional areas, fostering a sense of openness and continuity.

all images by Zhao Qiang

Sports Center’s interior layout Enhances User Interaction

Strategies to enhance user involvement include creating natural pathways and connections between different sports venues. A white perforated aluminum ramp facilitates easy movement, while rest areas, viewing seats, and interactive spaces wrapped in wood provide places for relaxation and social interaction.

Natural lighting and ventilation are integral to the design, ensuring a comfortable indoor environment. The use of curved columns and the incorporation of roadside trees blend architectural shadows with natural shading, creating a harmonious coexistence with nature.

The Hexi Indoor Sports Field is designed to be more than just a sports facility. It serves as a dynamic public space that encourages teamwork, creativity, and user interaction. Ground markings encourage participation in team sports and competitions, fostering a spirit of cooperation and competitiveness among students.

By blending architectural design with natural elements and urban context, the Hexi Indoor Sports Field by UAD provides a vibrant, multifunctional space that promotes physical health, social interaction, and community growth.

the Hexi Indoor Sports Field is situated in the northwest corner of Shaoxing University’s campus

the sports center creates a space that interacts with both the city and the campus

the design aims for an open-ended, functionally flexible space, fostering a dynamic environment

the sports center’s public spaces are simple and rustic, providing shelter from sun and rain

an ‘elevated floor’ forms below the football field, resembling public spaces shaded by urban buildings