Altza Municipal Sports Center: A Reimagined Urban Hub

The Altza Municipal Sports Center, a creation by Tabuenca & Leache alongside Chocarro & Herranz, represents a thoughtful urban renewal project built on the foundations of a former sports complex that suffered structural deficiencies.

This innovative design strategically repurposes elements from the original structure, such as retaining walls and part of the foundation, integrating them into a contemporary facility. A key feature of the new design is the elevated placement of the main sports court above the indoor swimming pools, a move that liberates space for a welcoming, west-facing public plaza. This outdoor area is thoughtfully equipped with new open-air courts and a compact fronton court, enhancing the facility's appeal. Additionally, a southern extension introduces a sun deck with an outdoor pool, playful water features for children, and two smaller buildings providing essential changing rooms and storage facilities.

This project not only resurrects a vital community asset but also elevates the standard of municipal sports facilities, fostering physical activity and social interaction within Donostia / San Sebastián. The center exemplifies how modern architectural solutions can address past structural challenges while creating forward-thinking spaces that serve a broader community purpose. The thoughtful integration of diverse amenities and public spaces transforms the center into a vibrant hub, promoting health, well-being, and community engagement for all its visitors.