Ken Rosewall Arena

Location Sydney, Australia

Client /operator Tennis NSW

Architect Cox Architecture Sydney, Australia www.cox.com.au

Author Cox Architecture

Photos Cameron Hallam Peter Nguyen

Official opening January 2020

Construction costs AUD 50.5 million (EUR 31.9 million)

TRANSFORMATION OF A MULTIPURPOSE ARENA IN SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

The Ken Rosewall Arena hosted tennis in the 2000 Olympics Games and was designed by BDP and BVN in 1997. In late 2018, COX Architecture was appointed to transform the facility to host the inaugural ATP Cup tournament and Super Netball Season games. The challenge: tennis requires a roof canopy that eliminates sunlight and rain while allowing players and spectators views out towards the skyline. Netball requires the elimination of wind, which is only achievable with a “total” enclosure of the bowl.

The design of the new roof is seamlessly responsive to the original bowl design – all the while being clearly articulated as a distinct addition to it. A light and ephemeral cable net structure works closely with the existing bowl structure to support a delicate PTFE fabric skin. Designed collaboratively with Arup Engineers and Fabritecture, it provides the required shading and protection from the elements.

The leading edge placed 4 m above the back of the bowl creates a visual connection to the skyline – as required for tennis. To preclude wind – as required for netball – it is enclosed by large hydraulically controlled folding translucent panels, creating a highly animated and changeable façade.

Ventilation

Through CFD analysis, natural ventilation was demonstrated as appropriate to create an occupiable environment underneath the roof, as it protects occupants from the sun. The rear bowl operable panels around the full perimeter enable natural ventilation by

introducing fresh cool air into the venue, which is drawn into the centre oculus of the roof as it removes hot air. Improvements included 10,000 seats in three grades; among them tip up seats for upper bowl general attendance.

Durability and low embodied energy

The removed structures and seats were all repurposed for use elsewhere. Adapting to the climate, the ventilation and LED sports lighting systems were explicitly intended to use minimal energy. The redevelopment ensured that the original concrete bowl and foundations were retained, saving significant embodied energy. It also ensured the social sustainability of the legacy of the 2000 Olympic tennis venue and, with the addition of the PTFE roof and operable windows, created a venue with a large proportion of natural ventilation capable of hosting games and crowds.

The systems for accessibility and universal design were enhanced with improved access, seating provisions, amenities and wayfinding to ensure that spectators and players have an enhanced experience in their journeys through the building. Gender issues were carefully considered specifically with the ability to switch the venue to host netball, a female sport mainly attended by women.

JURY VERDICT

Considering that the Ken Rosewall Arena is an upgrade of an existing venue, it still exceeds the minimum standards in regards to spectator facilities. Twelve different entry points cut down unnecessary walking and riding. Once inside, there is a choice of viewing positions around the entire field of play. A complete ring of wheelchair seats is located at the level that provides mid-bowl viewing and is proximate to disabled amenities. It was also noted by the jury that this venue offers high-quality accessibility for wheelchair competitors. There is direct ramped access from the changing rooms to the field of play. Additional accessible bathrooms were provided close to the tennis courts, cutting the time and energy needed by athletes for a comfort break. This venue clearly deserves the IPC IAKS Distinction for Accessibility.