Henn architects recently won the first prize in the invited international competition to design a new sports center in Nantong, China, which is in close proximity to Shanghai. The Nantong Sports Center establishes a hybrid of landscape, public space and athletic functions. As the epicenter of the complex, the 50,000sqm stadium features a 400 m track and seating for 10,000 spectators. Smaller independent sports halls surround the central stadium, interconnected by a diagrid path network which seamlessly links all functions throughout the site. More images and architects’ description after the break.
Located next to the government building and the new Nantong Urban Planning Museum, the sports center integrates smoothly with its local urban fabric. Assimilation is achieved by reinterpreting the city grid to maximize interaction with the existing east-west green axis. Extension of the central axis also promotes circulation between the ancient temple and neighboring commercial facilities. The ancient roots of the city emphasize harmony between its people, their activities, and nature.
