White Horse Leisure & Tennis Centre

Developement

Leisure centre extension, new entrance structure, landscaping and internal alterations.

Project Description

300sqm extension to the existing gym to provide additional open space plan, accessible facility. Internal alterations to the existing reception area and changing rooms. New entrance structure, creche external decking and landscaping. The scheme features mixture of transparent and translucent profile glazing lined parallel to the existing gym curvature, green roof over main extension structure as well as art space for light installation.

Project Details

Martin Arnold’s Architectural and Surveying teams have worked alongside the Council and GLL to develop a finished product which not only provides much needed additional gym space for the users, but also has a design which stands out, yet is in-keeping with the existing building. The curvature of the extension followed the outline of the existing gym, whilst the increased head-height and the use of Pilkington Profilit glazing provided additional area with a light and spacious feel for the users. Internal improvements were also carried out to the existing gym space, and associated changing facilities to provide an overall improved gym experience. Works were also carried out to provide an outside area of decking for the onsite crèche facilities.

To the front of the centre a large galvanised canopy was designed to ensure that the large extension did not detract from the entrance to the Centre. Martin Arnold then worked with local artist Rachel Barbaresi, a Council funded appointment through the Percent for Arts scheme, which encourages developers to contribute to local art projects. Rachel created ‘Celeritas’, a science inspired piece of art which sits above the canopy, and conveys a sense of time and space. The design starts densely near the entrance of the building and grows outward, giving a sense of cosmic expansion.

The team here at Martin Arnold are proud to have been able to undertake the design work for the extension, take the scheme through planning, procure and manage the works as Employers’ Agent, and most importantly complete the project within budget, whilst enabling the opening of the Centre to new members in January of 2017 as programmed.