SPORTS PARK
GUGULETHU
6
Gugulethu Sports Park is situated in the township of
Gugulethu, in a densely populated area, close to public
transportation. The site is a consolidation of an existing
enclosed sport ground and underutilised school fields,
thereby making an optimum use of the limited land for
recreation. The scheme aims to form an ‘urban link’ among
the schools in the vicinity, using sports as the mediator.
Further, it aspires to the creation of an epicentre, connecting
the different parts of the immediate neighbourhood.
The urban strategy includes a promenade along the Black
River which is a canalised stream flowing east of the site. The
promenade is the core of the proposed network of pathways
which takes on existing streets and the shortest walking
distance from public transportation. The promenade also
includes an existing bicycle track and addresses insecurity
issue around the track to promote its use. On the other side of
the river, a new road connects two existing major artery roads.
The site caters for a rugby field, an oval, a 200m track, a 100m
sprint track, an astro turf and 6 multi-purpose hard surface
courts which are strategically placed along the promenade.
The main building and the astro turf rests on a plinth defined
by the new paths and the promenade. A café and a care-taker’s
house complete the proposed scheme. The main building is
made up of a rectilinear concrete framed structure over which
lies a steel box. The circulation core ties both part together.
The lower part which houses a youth corner, entrance foyer and
changing room, follows a predominant path running across the
plinth. The steel box, that houses a multi-purpose room and a
gym, is oriented in such a way that it overlooks the precinct.
The steel box is detailed so that that the clean box- look
is uncompromised. The external perimeter skin allows for
natural ventilation through lovers at the bottom and top.
The roof is made up of a system of skylight facing south
to allow for regular diffused light throughout the day.
Accessibility and links
creation
Relationship of the
building to the plinth and
the site
Ground Floor
First Floor
Master Plan
Disposition of courts
Section through Astro Turf and Gym
Kurvin Virahsawmy
Architecture Portfolio 2014