Page 32 - Building Journal - May 2017

PUBLIC FACILITIES

f unc t i ons i nt o t he ex i st i ng urba n
fabric, facilitating 24-hour north-
south access across the site. The plan
envisaged a holistic integrated design
which responded to the surrounding
environment in the form of a "continuous
green line" from the recreation ground
to the swimming pool complex, ensuring
that the building became part of the
park.
The design consisted of integrated
pl a ne s c onne c t e d by a c c e ssi bl e
footpaths, with various activities
conducted on each plane, leading to a
continuous unfolding articulation on the
relatively flat site.
Two gently distorted interlocking
volumes enhance the visual effect and
reduce the negative impacts on sensitive
receivers, while their disposition shields
the open space and recreation amenities
from pollutants and noise from major
roads and rail ways. The reduced
building mass and increased green area
added 20 per cent to the amenity open
space.

Accessible greenery at all levels
The site allows barrier-free access
from all directions via footpaths.
The ball court fences are transparent
and articulated, stressing the visual
connection between the surrounding
streets and the focal point - the
swimming pool complex.
The crush hall is a key orientation
point, acting as a wind corridor and
inviting natural light into the complex.
The elevations are largely glazed,
allowing sunlight penetration and
creating a visual connection with the
outdoor recreation ground.
The open landscaped deck resembles
a "green carpet" running around the
complex, bringing the public from
the spectator stand level to the green
corridor, with trellises and trees
providing the recreation ground with
shade. Various planti ng features,
including vertical greening on the
facade and on-grade planters along the
site's periphery, create a prominent and
harmonious green environment for the
community.

Promoting leisure within the community
The Kwun Tong Swimming Pool

30 Building Journal