AQUATIC

 Gold Coast, Queensland 

Lead Architect: ARM + RWA Sports Architecture 

 ARM and RWA recently collaborated to assist City of Gold Coast with a short feasibility study to understand the viability to upgrade the existing Gold Coast Aquatic Centre to allow it to host all swimming competition for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Notably, the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre hosted swimming during the recent 2018 Commonwealth Games. This study proposed an innovative approach to replanning the existing buildings and the surrounding precinct as well as identifying likely temporary overlay requirements for the Games. This included a new roof to provide full weather protection to the competition pool and seating tiers. Portions of the

roof would then be removed after the Games to reinstate the outlook and ambience of the original outdoor aquatic facility. This proposal is under review by relevant government departments and project stakeholders.

 Mermaide Waters, Queensland 

Lead Architect: RWA Sports Architecture 

RWA was approached by property developers Sunland Group to develop a number of options for a new Aquatic and Community Centre within their new residential development at Mermaid Waters. The final concept consolidated and centralised facilities that would otherwise be required within proposed mid-rise and high-rise towers. The design includes two swimming pools, changerooms, large gymnasium, meeting rooms, pre-function and function rooms as well as a number of administration offices. The proposed site has spectacular views across two freshwater lakes to the Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach iconic skylines.

 Melbourne, Victoria 

Lead Architect: RWA Sports Architecture 

RWA was commissioned to develop a bespoke concept to enclose the existing outdoor swimming pool with operable walls that would give the venue more operational flexibility. The design involved two forms of operable fenestration that can be adjusted to suit weather conditions. At the lower level, concertina glass doors retract upward to allow patrons to circulate the pool deck whilst increasing airflow and cross ventilation. At the upper level, large fabric partitions can fold away to again increase cross ventilation and daylight. Interestingly, the large upper bays can also be retracted to allow temporary grandstand seating to be erected alongside the pool during major national and international swim meets. Currently this project is seeking funding from State and Federal government.

Melbourne, Victoria 

Lead Architect: RWA Sports Architecture 

RWA were commissioned to undertake a series of upgrades to the venue’s key internal spaces to enhance visitor experience and ultimately increase overall patronage. The upgrades aim to incorporate the best of today’s standards and trends, while incorporating flexibility in the design to allow for future evolution. The main foyer will be transformed with contemporary internal finishes and custom furniture while a ‘mega video wall’ will replay sporting highlights from around the globe. The new interior was designed to enhance the venue’s recent rebranding and strengthen it’s identity as Australia’s best indoor sports facility. RWA were also responsible for designing and documenting the expanded MSAC public gym and fitness centre.