Medeu Sports Center

The site is a small plateau surrounded by the dramatic Tian Shan Mountain peaks. This virgin land is abundant with freely roaming wildlife, a sight that recalls nomadic tradition. To mitigate the building’s presence in this idyllic landscape, it is sunken into the earth. Only the roof is visible above grade where it adopts a dynamic relationship with the surrounding terrain. Individual roof strips form an architectural topography that assimilates into the mountain landscape. Between the Individual roof modules, clerestory windows flood the interiors with natural light and mountain views. The project employs sustainable strategies including rainwater harvesting, geothermal heating and cooling, and natural ventilation.