The design scheme combines standardised corrugated metal roof sheets with glass panels to construct a complex with series of sports halls in the suburbs of the city.
Project Name: Play Arena
Architect Name: M9 Design Studio
The idea is that these simple elements can be refined and combined in new and surprising ways in order to create architecturally appealing, accessible and easily adaptable sports facilities, which are cheap to build and maintain. Sliding sections in the corrugated metal walls can be pulled aside to connect the hall with the open space outside during large events or to provide improved ventilation. The sports halls are designed using a modular building system, with unique forms and characteristics. The outer skin of the building modules is intended to make it appear light and welcoming and also differentiate it from its industrial neighbours. In addition, this skin will serve as a giant canvas for local artists to display and project their art.
Beyond the halls, the space is laid out to like a streetscape. The centre’s various functions are arranged in relation to their specific requirements, such as spatial quality, daylight, materiality and activity. Social spaces and informal meeting areas are distributed throughout the building, strategically interwoven between the various facilities.
This layout was based on the notion that proximity to activities lowers the threshold for participation. The surrounding landscape will become the natural extension of the centre’s indoor spaces, with various street-sports and cultural functions placed along a recreational string of greenery that connects the plaza through a pedestrian and bicycle path.
Targeting a broad demographic audience from across a variety of cultural backgrounds, gender, age and interests, our goal was to create an open and welcoming building, lowering the threshold for involvement and engagement.
M9 Design Studio
Founded in Bangalore, M9 Design Studio strives to impact people through spaces. No matter what project we’re designing, we always aim to make a difference in the city’s landscape. We envision spaces that will inspire people, help them connect with one another, and enrich the human experience. We do this by embracing the life, love, and diversity of the city. Recognising that every great design is the result of a combination of ideas, we’re inspired by the dynamism of urban life.
The firm works at multiple scales and with various organisations right from private clients to corporates and NGOs. This allows us to experiment and diversify our work: architectural and interior projects such as luxury villas, high end residences and unique offices, as well as hospitality and institutional projects. M9’s design approach is to re-connect architecture with nature, make optimum use of space, materials, lighting and landscape to reinvent and transform living environments and urban spaces. The firm strives to create design that inspires, approaching each project, regardless of size and scale, with an understanding that architecture has a unique power to influence lifestyle and society.
Our forte is attention to details and customisation. Honesty to design and client satisfaction, are the driving forces, along with the ability to constantly explore and evolve. We are dedicated to unique design approaches adapted to each project, and achieving a balancebetween functionality and aesthetics, context, climate, material, cost and time frame.
