The Municipal Sports Pavilion in Vila-Seca, originally constructed in 1986, underwent minor improvements over the years until the need arose for significant renovations. With the opportunity to host Greco-Roman wrestling during the Mediterranean Games 2018 in Tarragona, internal reforms became imperative.

Expansion and Modernization

The renovation project aimed not only to enhance the interior but also to utilize the outdoor space for warm-up activities. This expansion extended to the creation of a covered pathway encircling the building. Post-renovation, the pavilion’s arenas would primarily function as hockey courts, catering to both outdoor and indoor training sessions and league matches.

Design Integration

The renovated pavilion maintains its original volume, with the addition of lightweight steel and corrugated metal sheet porches surrounding it. This contemporary addition contrasts with the original heavy concrete structure. The new arcade acts as a connector between the existing building and the outdoor rink, integrating seamlessly with the campus surroundings.

Visual Connectivity and Material Usage

To enhance visual communication between indoor and outdoor spaces, parts of the base of the existing building were replaced with glass closures. This alteration not only breaks the original building’s solid appearance but also visually links indoor sports activities with the exterior.

Construction and Material Selection

The renovation employed minimalistic construction techniques, focusing on four primary materials: steel, glass, polycarbonate, and wood. A modular steel structure, comprising HEB140 profiles for pillars and beams, forms the pavilion’s framework. The outdoor rink utilizes a similar modular structure concept, with FINK beams covering a span of 25 meters.

Sustainable Solutions

Metal sheets with specific fret designs and thicknesses cover the porches, simplifying implementation and minimizing visual impact. For acoustic insulation, micro-perforated sheets line the interior of the outdoor rink. Additionally, polycarbonate panels filter natural light and isolate the space from solar radiation, contributing to energy efficiency.

The transformation of the Vila-Seca Municipal Sports Pavilion represents a harmonious blend of modern design, functional enhancement, and sustainable construction practices.