Design Brief

Vibrant, bright and colourful were the words chosen to describe the impact sought in the new main entry area of Sutherland Leisure Centre as it had become crowded and could not accommodate the increasing numbers of patrons attending the Centre. With low ceilings and little external light the main entry to the Centre felt dull and uninviting.

The design brief was developed with the staff from Sutherland Shire Council and Sutherland Leisure Centre to open up the main entry, make it more inviting for patrons, more workable for staff and provide new access facilities.  The brief included creating a more inviting and defined entry for patrons, to consolidate staff activities into a secure area where a number of patrons could be attended to. Council also expressed a desire to open up the entry to allow it to connect to the external landscaped areas and bushland, as well as including covered protection from wet weather over a pathway between the main entry and the Sutherland Shire Leisure Centre crèche.

Design Solution

The design solution was to create a positive visual impact upon entering the leisure centre and highlight the use of the centre by bringing imagery into the design that would make patrons and staff comfortable, energetic and enthused to be in the centre. This also included bringing additional natural light through the use of glazing into the main entry to enhance the feeling of space and connection with the outside environment.

Finished surfaces including wall and floor finishes were selected to allow for extensive wear and tear and easy maintenance. The covered walkway over the existing path was designed to provide protection from wet weather from the south and west sides of the pathway between the centre and the crèche.

Design Outcome

We introduced imagery, movement and flow to the main entry and reception area where patrons entered into the leisure centre.  The careful use of glazing now links the internal space to the external green space beyond the new entry.  The leisure centre now feels as if it extends beyond its formal walled boundaries, creating feelings of fluidity, movement and spaciousness for those attending the centre.