Huddersfield Leisure Centre

Another key element to our client's brief was to achieve a mix of sports uses that would be economically viable. Working with both our client and groups from the local community, from sports clubs to schools, who helped guide our design outline and see it evolve. Assisting in bringing our ideas to life, we took advantage of BIM which enabled us to easily communicate drawn information to non-technical people.

It was also important that people found the building clear and easy to navigate. A spacious, double height main central area of the centre helps to divide the wet and dry zones, guiding visitors with ease. Adding to its bright, open and welcoming aesthetic, the central hub area features artwork especially designed for the project by community artist Stella Corrall, as does the foyer and cafe area.

To improve people's wellbeing and their enjoyment of the space, we ensured the building provided a good indoor environment. A combination of non-toxic materials and finishes as well as enabling adequate daylight and fresh air throughout helped to achieve this. Reducing its impact on the environment, we included grey water recycling, a biodiverse roof, and energy efficient building services controls, including intelligent light controls on PIRs.

Encouraging the use of more environmentally friendly modes of transport, the centre integrates cycle storage and safe, well-designed cyclist and pedestrian-friendly routes. Its convenient location also means it sits within close proximity to frequent public transport services, connecting the centre to popular areas of the town.