Unique fusion of ice and water
In the sports centre Sportoase Groot Schijn in Deurne, Antwerp, Belgium, you can not only swim, dive, and scuba dive but also learn ice skating, watch ice hockey and figure skating. It brings together the entirely different worlds of ice and water under one roof. This unique combination called for a special design.
Compact, organized, and user-friendly building
Architectural studios ZJA and OM/AR succeeded in cleverly intertwining these very different functions in a compact, organized, and user-friendly building. Its wooden-clad facade seamlessly blends into the parc Groot Schijn, and the grand entrance warmly invites visitors inside. Inside, the horizontal wooden panelling harmonizes with the green surroundings, offering glimpses of both the recreational pools on the second floor and the terrace outside.
Smart design for versatile use
In the entrance hall, the circulation areas and the cafeteria, the architects deliberately placed ice and water within sight and proximity of one another. Yet, within this single, spacious and compact building, this combination does not create a complicated or busy interior. The multifunctionality was designed with a focus on advantages, shared needs, and with an eye to simplicity and clarity.
Daylight and transparency for a pleasant atmosphere
The building is devised around a central core, with the functions shared by swimming pools and skating rinks stacked on separate floors. The layout aims for overview and user-friendliness, enhanced by allowing daylight through the transparent roof and glass facade. Sightlines connecting the various levels and functions provide openness and clarity, while high ceilings and color accents create a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The diverse rooftop landscape includes an outdoor terrace, outdoor pools and a sunbathing area, as well as wooden shed roofs with windows on one side to introduce daylight into various spaces. The other side of the roof is entirely covered with solar panels. During the summer months, it’s a joy to spend time at the outdoor pool and the summer bar on the terrace, which beckon from a great distance away.
Future-oriented sports centre
Sustainability takes centre stage in the design of the sports centre Sportoase Groot Schijn. This sports centre is chlorine-free and the first gas-free sports centre in Belgium. The use of renewable energy sources, such as air-to-water heat pumps and rooftop solar panels, is cleverly integrated. The combination of a pool and ice rink, with shared support functions, promotes efficiency and sustainability, particularly in terms of energy savings. Heat exchange with the pool is possible, resulting in significant energy savings compared to two separate buildings.
Sports centre Sportoase Groot Schijn is not only a sports and recreation centre but also a shining example of modern architecture and technology coming together to reduce the environmental impact while offering an extraordinary sports experience to visitors.
Architect: ZJA in collaboration with OM/AR
Client: Sportoase
Contractor: Van Roey
