National Sports Center in Tenero, Ticino, Switzerland
1990/98-2001

Project
1993-1998 (competition project 1990)

Realization
1998-2001

Client
Swiss Confederation

User
Swiss Federal Sport Department

Area
53'200 m²

Built area
10'000 m²

Volume
57'300 m³

Artwork
Space in movement, Teres Wydler

Program
triple gymnasium hall, with restaurant, different sports facilities and lodgings


The main building for sport and gymnastic facilities, is characterised on its south front by an generous portico which offers a shaded place of transition between the outdoor and indoor services. The administration and hostel building has a semicircular shape, completely closed on the street front (functioning like a noise protection wall), while the south façade with the loggias is turned towards the lake. Two main volume composes the site: the principle building (with the gymnastic hall provided with all sports facilities as well as a refectory) is structured by a row of 10 linear 7.60 m wide units creating a large portico of 11 m height. The inner space offers an appropriate flexibility of organization according to the requested use. Skylights inserted in the vaulted roof allow a bright daylight within the inner spaces. The reinforced concrete bearing structure is clad with red bricks like the smaller semicircle building which houses lodging and administration.