Can a building wear two faces, presenting itself with dual fronts and no back? How does it gracefully blend into its surroundings from one angle while commanding attention as a singular force from another? How can opposing elements find harmony within a single structure? These were the inquiries driving the steel roof design of the Indoor Sports Arena at KLE Technological University—a quest to reconcile the dichotomies of architecture and landscape, figure and ground, city and campus.
The Steel Roof Design Presents Dual Fronts And No Back | Thirdspace Architecture Studio
Nestled within the sprawling 100-acre university campus, the site possesses a unique duality. Moreover, it faces a bustling six-lane intercity road on one side. Additionally, it opens up to the serene expanse of the campus on the other, juxtaposing urban vigor with tranquil greens.
The conflicting perspectives of the university’s leadership catalyzed innovation. While the Chancellor voiced concerns about obstructing campus views and encroaching on green spaces, the Vice Chancellor envisioned the arena as a beacon. Thus, reshaping the cityscape and asserting the university’s presence. These opposing viewpoints become the framework for the design process.
Taking advantage of the site’s natural gradient, the building gracefully descends into the ground from the campus side while maintaining a striking presence facing the city. This sectional shift allows the structure to seamlessly merge with the landscape while making a bold architectural statement.
Despite the constraints imposed by sports facility standards, the design prioritizes integration with the environment. By sinking large volumes of space into the ground, the building harmonizes with the campus landscape, with the central courts serving as anchor points around which ancillary facilities revolve.
The architectural language further emphasizes this dialogue between built form and nature. A pyramidal steel roof with an intricate structure crowns the central courts, while a green roof envelops the periphery, blurring the boundaries between structure and landscape.
Access to the arena is carefully orchestrated, with plazas and pathways designed to extend the campus social fabric into and around the facility. From the inside, the building caters to its programmatic needs, while from the outside, it seamlessly integrates into the campus environment.
Beyond its functional role, the arena aspires to be a communal space, transcending its utilitarian purpose. By weaving plazas, pathways, and gardens into its design, it invites interaction and engagement from the broader community, blurring the lines between interior and exterior spaces.
Externally, the building’s zinc cladding and glass facade command attention, rising from the ground with an air of grandeur. Yet, its upturned corner and playful undertones hint at a more intimate, inviting interior.
As sunlight dances upon its zinc skin, the arena comes to life, casting dramatic hues and revealing glimpses of its vibrant interiors. It stands as a testament to its complexity, simultaneously asserting its presence on the cityscape while melding seamlessly into the campus landscape.
In essence, the Sports Arena transcends its role as a mere facility, emerging as a symbol of hyper-urbanity in harmonious co-existence with its surroundings.
Fact File
Designed by: Thirdspace Architecture Studio
Project Type: Recreation & Training, University
Project Name: Figured Ground – University Sports Arena
Location: Hubballi, Karnataka
Year Built: 2023
Project Size: 48437.6 Sq.ft
Principal Architects: Praveen Bavadekar & Namrata Betigiri
Project Architect: Ashwani Choudhary
Photograph Courtesy: Niveditaa Gupta, Andre J Fanthome & Studio Noughts & Crosses
Manufacturers: Instacrete, Merinolam, VMZINC
Landscape Design: EcoInscape, Sudhir Choughule – EcoInscape
Structural Design: Manjunath&Co, B.L.Manjunath – Manjunath&Co
Source: Archdaily
Firm’s Instagram Link: Thirdspace Architecture Studio
For Similar Projects >> A Vocational Training Institute in Aurangabad while Focusing on Improved Social Responsibility
Nestled within Prakriti Farms, this residence epitomizes rustic farmhouse interior design charm and a deep connection with the natural world. Its elegance lies in its emphasis on elemental materials and its seamless integration with the surrounding landscape. With three bedrooms and a spacious living area, the home was strategically designed in an L shape to […]
House of Heights: How design shapes relationships and well-being? “A house can transform its people. The living room, the tallest space in my home, is where we socialize, express our feelings, and spend the most time—an open arena for life’s conversations. The impact of front elevation design on home and harmony further emphasizes how thoughtful design […]
Spacious, inviting, and intimate, courtyards have an integral place in the vernacular architecture across India. Beyond their climatic purposes, courtyards assume the role of a social space, a space for contemplation, and a space where something happens. Their presence in various forms, proportions, and sizes has been a ubiquitous feature in Indian vernacular architecture. The […]
Located in Bangalore, opposite a large neighborhood park, a set of 4 houses was to be built—one of which was to be the personal house for the client, and the others were to be let out. The intent of these Bangalore homes was to create a quiet presence on the street and evoke a sense of […]
The modern residence integrates contemporary architecture with biophilic design principles, offering a luxurious and nature-connected living experience. The exterior features clean lines, landscaped lawns, and vertical green walls that soften the structure while promoting sustainability. The minimalist contemporary interior designs of this are designed with an open-plan layout, double-height ceilings, and large glass openings, ensuring […]
Some homes are big on square footage but don’t maximize space—and then some compact ones make the most of precious space at a premium. Located in Bangalore, this 3,000 sq. ft. villa interior design exemplifies this residential project, exploring staggered volumes that led to creating spaces at multiple levels, including a mezzanine floor. As per […]
In the heart of Gurugram, where the city’s energy pulses with both hard work and hard play, a 2600 sq. ft. rooftop terrace design has been transformed into the ultimate hangout spot. Designed for the young and the young at heart, this terrace captures the spirit of a city that knows how to balance the […]
In the vibrant town of Kannur, Kerala, the contemporary house design of this residence is more than a home—it’s a sanctuary designed to nurture both body and soul. Built for a family of five, it blends minimalist elegance with everyday comfort, creating a space that feels alive, welcoming, and deeply connected to nature. Editor’s Note: […]
The one-acre site of Saukhya Farm is nestled in the lush valley of Beze Village, on the outskirts of Nashik. Surrounded by small farms, it offers sweeping views of Beze Dam and the surrounding hills. The clients’ brief was to transform the site into a farmhouse and to cultivate part of it into an orchard. Work […]
Nestled on the bustling Karnavati Road in Ahmedabad, this modern residence spans over a 10,881 sq. ft. corner plot, seamlessly integrating form, function, and tranquility. The house is thoughtfully planned in an L-shaped configuration of this house design, with its entry oriented to the east and a lush garden strategically placed in the southwest corner […]