My project is a community-focused sports centre designed to address pressing health issues in Porto, where 65% of residents over the age of 15 do not engage in regular physical activity. With cardiovascular diseases accounting for 30% of annual deaths—many of which are linked to sedentary lifestyles—the project aims to promote healthier habits by encouraging participation in physical exercise. Strategically located to serve the local population, the design makes innovative use of the site’s natural features, incorporating an existing rockface and navigating a challenging level change with architectural sensitivity.
At the heart of the building is a dramatic triple-height climbing wall, housed on the ground floor and immediately visible upon entry. This striking feature sets the tone for the centre’s dynamic and inclusive atmosphere. The circulation route through the building is carefully considered, guiding users past various active zones and offering visual and spatial interaction with all the sports available: climbing, squash, badminton, and paddle. These sports were deliberately selected due to the lack of facilities for them in the surrounding area, providing residents with the rare opportunity to explore new forms of physical activity.
The design philosophy centres on accessibility and exploration, encouraging visitors to try unfamiliar sports in hopes that they might discover one they enjoy and wish to pursue further. In doing so, the project not only provides state-of-the-art facilities but also aims to shift cultural attitudes towards exercise and wellbeing in Porto. It is both a social and architectural intervention, rooted in the belief that thoughtful design can influence healthier lifestyles and foster a stronger sense of community.
Architecture 
Lizzie Grinter | Architecture
