CURVE OF WELCOME
"Redesigning barrier-free arrival: equal, dignified reception."
Our redesign transforms CEPSUM Sports Centre's reception area into a barrier-free, inclusive, and dynamic arrival experience. The transformation begins with a bold architectural gesture inspired by the University of Montreal's logo. The use of curves creates a feeling of welcome, encourages approachability, and interaction. We've reimagined the exterior facade as a functional and symbolic element. At the heart of the redesigned entrance, a cylindrical glass elevator tower rises dramatically through a double-height volume, its central positioning and soaring height creating an immediate sense of arrival and institutional importance.
This reconfigured circulation core fundamentally changes how visitors experience the space. The new spiral staircase wraps organically around the elevator, its elegant curves encouraging visual and social interaction between users of different vertical transit methods. Floor-to-ceiling glazing transforms the entire entrance into a transparent interface, dissolving boundaries between interior and exterior.
Every design decision merges aesthetic refinement with purposeful functionality. Even the expansive glazing serves multiple roles - maximizing natural light, reducing energy loads, and creating vital visual connections that reinforce the center's role as a hub of campus life.
The entrance transforms practical circulation into an architectural experience - one that immediately communicates the university's values of innovation, accessibility and community. By weaving institutional identity into every spatial intervention, we've created not just welcoming sports facility entrance, but a new campus landmark that embodies the very ideals of inclusive design and athletic excellence.
(From competitor's text)
The proposal provides an appealing entrance design made of glass which would provide lots of natural light, however it relies heavily on the use of glass. Spiral staircases are difficult to navigate because of inconsistent tread depths and irregularity of steps which increases the risk of missteps, especially for people with limited vision, balance issues, or cognitive disabilities.
(From jury report)
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