Nanbu Eye: A Gem of Gymnasium Design by the Jialing River

Li Yang and Xu Haifeng's Masterpiece Blends Sport with Nature

The Nanbu Eye stands out as a unique gymnasium, distinguished by its strategic location and design philosophy. It is a product of the designers' vision to integrate the gymnasium with its natural surroundings, creating a seamless transition between the urban landscape and the waterfront. The design's core concepts—earthscape, integration, and openness—translate into a structure that is both functional and visually stunning, offering uninterrupted views of the Jialing River.

Li Yang and Xu Haifeng's approach to the gymnasium's design is innovative, employing a "jewel" structural system that not only supports the building's architecture but also defines its interior spaces. The "silk" surface, a metaphor for the Silk Road, provides an aesthetic appeal while serving practical purposes such as shading and energy conservation. This design choice reflects the region's heritage as the silk capital of western China, with the undulating exterior and colorful aluminum plates mirroring the silk's fluidity.

The gymnasium spans 22,000 square meters and reaches a height of 32 meters, housing a basketball arena and a civic sports center. The arena can accommodate 3,000 spectators, while the sports center includes a swimming pool with standard lanes, badminton courts, table tennis, and areas for fitness and yoga. This multi-functional space is designed to cater to both professional sporting events and community health and wellness activities.

The design team, led by Li Yang and Xu Haifeng, has overcome significant challenges to realize the Nanbu Eye. The integration of a robust sports facility with the softness of nature, the creation of open spaces accessible around the clock, and the implementation of a structural system capable of supporting a vast dome and panoramic corridors are among the project's notable achievements. These features not only enhance the building's functionality but also contribute to its distinctive character.

Open to the public 24/7, the Nanbu Eye encourages interaction between visitors and the landscape. The building's openness is exemplified by the ribbon-like structure that encloses civic spaces and sports fields, inviting the community to engage in sports and leisure activities against the backdrop of the Jialing River. The gymnasium's design is a testament to the possibilities of creating spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and socially inclusive.

In conclusion, the Nanbu Eye is a remarkable architectural feat that stands as a symbol of the harmonious coexistence of urban development and natural beauty. It is a space where the community can gather to celebrate sports and wellness while enjoying the serene environment of the riverfront. The gymnasium, now a Platinum A' Design Award winner, is not just a building but a landmark that embodies the spirit of innovation and the essence of a lifestyle in harmony with nature.