WATER SPORTS CENTER
The interior of the aquatic space itself
Client:
“AtomStroyComplex (commissioned by Sinara-Development and the Government of the Sverdlovsk Region)

Task:
To develop interior design and navigation system for the new Aquatics Palace in Ekaterinburg, one of the most important and largest facilities being built for the Universiade 2023. The development included space concept, design and working documentation.
“Water Sports Palace” (WSP) in Yekaterinburg is designed for training sessions, sports competitions of Russian and international level and development of mass sports. When developing the interiors for the Water Sports Center, the main (and unified) motif of the design solutions was chosen to be different “states of pure water”.

The main space is divided into two main themes. The spaces of the first floor public areas reflect an “underwater” feeling. While on the second and third floors, the interiors utilize “above water” imagery. The concept is interpreted in different ways in different rooms and areas, through different materials and technologies, developing a common water theme and forming a unified image of the object.
The entire space of the first floor is an image of “inside the water”. It is here that all the pools and the athletes' area are located, and it is on this level that history is made.

The interior reveals an image of clear, blue water, giving the whole space a sense of conciseness and peacefulness.

The idea is reflected in the soft plasticity of the framing forms of the vertical communication zone of the atrium space, the color scheme, the dynamic structure of ceiling solutions in combination with lighting fixtures that set different scenarios and accentuate functional zones.

Each plastic form and each material used is endowed with its own characteristic, its own state dictated by the optical properties arising from the contact of water with the environment. Reflections, peculiarities of material surface treatment and texture help to reveal the overall image.
VIP boxes convey the beauty and uniqueness of deep waters. After all, only a select few get to see it for themselves.
The interior decoration reflects the metaphor of water ripples. It appears on the surface of the water as it moves, whether it's a breeze or the movement of your fingers on the surface.
The droplets falling on the surface of the water inspired the interior design of the cafe, as well as the navigation elements.