Osaka Municipal Central Gymnasium

This gymnasium consists of a main arena with seating for 10,000, a sub-arena, facilities for judo and kendo, conference rooms, and a sports information area. For the purpose of environmental preservation and effective use of the premises, most of the building including the main arena (30m high, 110m diameter) was built underground.. The roof is covered with a 1m-thick layer of soil and plants, realizing an undulating park rich in vegetation. Natural daylight and air circulation in all dry areas was insured with energy-saving techniques, such as a ventilation system that utilizes heat-insulation and isothermal effects specific to underground buildings.

• JIA Sustainable Architecture Award 2000
• BCS Award 1999
• FIP Award 1998