Sport as a generator for nation building, urban revitalisation and a meaningful architecture : towards the design of an urban framework and high performance centre for the Kings Park Precinct, Durban.

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to determine the significance of sport in society and its influence on the urban fabric and architecture. The project investigates the relationship between the built form and sport in the design of an urban framework and High Performance Centre for Kings Park, Durban. More specifically, the investigation has three primary objectives, ranging from the macro to the micro context or from the broad to the more specific, (Social, Urban and Architectural). The first aim will explore the social aspects of sport and its influence on culture, specifically with regard to nation building in South Africa. Secondly the focus narrows to the use of the sports event as a means of generating an urban intervention which uplifts an area of ‘lost space’ within the Kings Park Precinct. The final point focuses on creating a relevant and meaningful architectural response, which is responsive to both its users and the surrounding context. The design of the proposed urban and architectural intervention will be facilitated through the investigation of recent literature, theories, precedent and case studies, and personally conducted interviews with informed professionals. This research will determine a relevant architectural typology which is responsible and appropriate to its context. The design process becomes a reaction to defined internal and external stimuli with inherent restraints and opportunities, in which the end result becomes a synthesis of multiple inputs, generating a unique hybrid architecture.