Proposed Sports and Recreational Complex 1.1

Design Concept

Concept Statement

"Vintage Glamour"

Conceptual Analysis

Design  Objectives
1. To design a building that would instinctively look like a recreational center
2. To design a emotionally functional building that sets the mood for enjoyment
3. To design a retro themed building that incorporates advanced technology

Conceptual Write-Up

Vintage Glamour

Primarily inspired by classic Hollywood sophistication of the 50’s brought by perhaps a similar urge of early renaissance architects that looked in the past in order to advance its own decadence, in which considered by many as the most creative period in human history. Just like Brunelleschi who ignited a cultural phenomenon by studying classical Rome, in order to put a masterpiece to a then shameful dome-less Basilica in Florence.

This project began by extensive finger-pounding of putting words or phrases in a search box that hopefully relates to the admired decade that it may somewhat find a link to the concept to the design solutions. The thought of a strikingly painted, chrome-outlined structure, accented brightly of pink and blue shades with chequered flooring comes to mind a popular 1950’s automobile parked outside of a diner known for milkshakes. This image however, not a first-hand experience, rather was a portrayal brought in by popular media since the 50’s has been long over before our generations’ existence. The process of erecting an idea from something that was not seen or felt was harder than what was first expected. Changing to a simpler and google-friendly conceptual design was ideal.

Thankfully, the realization that the space requirements for this project were elaborated on theatres and a bowling center, so, here on, the focus for the conceptual design would be a themed movie house and bowling alley. Coincidentally, it was considered as the golden age of bowling from 1940 until 1960 due to its increase in popularity, the same time period as the initial idea. And so, the pursuit for inspiration continues.

A design objective would be that at first glance at the exterior of the building it would obviously be seen and easily tagged as a recreational hub, with colourful exhibitions, casting interesting shades throughout the day complimented with the landscape and a playful lighting arrangements at night adding to that picturesque skyline. Upon entry the emotional functionality should have taken its toll setting the mood for the pleasurable feeling of having a good time. Equipped with technologically advance amenities this would be able to turn a regular movie date with friends or family into a historical and memorable experience with the 50’s popularized “drive-in” inspired theatre at Cinema 1, and a luxurious red carpet-like experience at Gold Class Cinema 2 complete with lounge chairs for solitary viewing, for couples and up to a family of five. Bowling night could’ve been mistaken for a retro party but never mistaken for a dull and boring mandatory hang-out with co-workers. And dining should be time-travel at least until the last bite with choices from burger joints and steak houses to a soft piano playing, wedding proposal-worthy restaurants.

Recreation is an important aspect of human life, it may create new relationships or strengthen current ones, it may revitalize the mind and body or simply a pause from a stressful situation, and many believe it is therapeutic. As important as any other structure, designing a sports and recreation center that incline its occupants to feel enjoyment in engaging in the activities readily available or just by marvelling on aesthetic features and decorative elements of the environment may set an atmosphere of goodwill and appreciation for the past that as history always reminds, is a significant part of what the future holds.