In 2020, Legato Sports Architecture showcased its ingenuity in constructing the URAM Extreme Park, marking its status as the largest extreme park in Russia. The architectural challenge was multifaceted: to cater to the rigorous training needs of Olympic-level athletes, provide simple zones for amateur riders, seamlessly integrate with the historical context of Kazan’s city center, and serve as an open urban space for recreational activities.
Urban Contextualization:
The URAM Extreme Park not only met but exceeded these challenges, standing out as a rare fusion of a professional training ground for athletes and a vibrant public space. Nestled within the historical city center of Kazan, the park seamlessly integrates into the urban fabric while offering a dynamic environment for extreme sports enthusiasts.
A Dual Role: Professional Training and Public Recreation
Holistic Facility:
Spanning 23,000 m², the URAM Extreme Park hosts an array of sports facilities. It includes an Olympic-size indoor swimming pool, recreational areas for amateur athletes, a streetball court, skate park, and even a skateable loop incorporated into the entrance group. This diverse range of amenities caters to both elite athletes and the general public.
Architectural Vision Realized:
Legato Sports Architecture’s global vision to elevate sports architecture as a distinct form of Russian architectural art found its realization in the URAM Extreme Park. The park not only serves its primary function as a sports facility but also stands as a testament to the creative intersection of architecture, urban planning, and extreme sports.
Architectural Details and Urban Integration
Skateable Artistry:
The skatepark within the URAM Extreme Park goes beyond being a mere functional space. It transforms into a concrete sculpture with intricate details, reflecting the craftsmanship of professional riders involved in the construction. Notably, the entrance features a skateable loop, and the amphitheater draws inspiration from Moscow’s iconic “Pit,” known for spontaneous gatherings and self-expression.
Innovative Design Elements:
The park introduces skateable street furniture, a pioneering feature in Russia. Flower beds with skateable edges not only add a unique aesthetic but also contribute to the park’s ecological initiatives. Mosaic panels inspired by Soviet monumental art adorn street plaza elements, paying homage to the historical context.
Ecological Sustainability and Construction Excellence
Eco-Friendly Construction:
URAM Extreme Park aligns with a broader program focused on enhancing ecological conditions and biodiversity in Kazan. Natural materials like larch for the air park’s facade and eco-friendly coatings in the streetball area emphasize sustainability. The park’s design incorporates green spaces and skateable flower beds instead of traditional fences, enhancing safety.
Manual Precision in Construction:
To achieve the complex and unique forms required for extreme objects, manual construction methods were employed. The skate park and pump tracks were meticulously crafted using shotcrete, and builders invested considerable effort in detailing and rubbing the concrete. This manual precision contributes to an exhilarating riding experience for athletes.
Urban Attraction and Recreational Hub
Popular Public Space:
URAM Extreme Park has transcended its role as a sports facility to become a beloved public space. With around 13,000 monthly visitors and 4,000 regular riders, it has seamlessly integrated into the city’s infrastructure. Positioned strategically between Gorky Park and the Kremlin, the park serves as a bustling hub attracting visitors of all ages.
In conclusion, URAM Extreme Park not only exemplifies architectural excellence in sports facility design but also stands as a symbol of successful urban integration. Its dual role as a training ground for extreme athletes and a recreational space for the public showcases the power of innovative design to harmonize diverse urban needs.
