Make’s shortlisted competition scheme for the Aquatics Centre houses a world class venue for the London 2012 Olympics within a dramatic gateway building at the entrance to the Olympic Park in Stratford, East London. The scheme makes ingenious use of the topography of the immediate area, using the structure to manage a drop in ground level at the Park entrance. Two pools are sunk into the ground on either side of the main entrance to the site, linked at basement levels by a training pool and sports science facilities.

Spectator grandstands rise up above ground level, and the main entrance concourse is drawn between them to lead to the Olympic Park beyond. The whole complex is spanned by a lightweight roof whose sweeping curves are inspired by the outstretched arms of a swimmer performing the physically demanding butterfly stroke. A roofing system of transparent ETFE pillows bathes each arena in natural light and the structure facilitates rainwater collection. The centre is designed to leave a lasting and sustainable leisure facility for the use of the wider community after the close of the Olympic games.