Naenae Bowling Club

BUILD

The Naenae Bowling Club project was envisioned as a key community hub designed to revitalize a suburb that had been in decline for over 30 years. The suburb's aging population, with limited transportation options, often faced isolation, leading to minimal community interaction. The goal was to create a space where residents—both young and elderly—could engage in activities that inspire, connect, and invigorate them, fostering a stronger sense of community. In particular, the client wanted a striking and modern facility that could serve as a focal point for the community, embodying both aesthetics and functionality.

The design focused heavily on sustainability, with an emphasis on minimizing resource consumption. A unique fabric canopy, shaped with a central ring, facilitates natural ventilation by allowing heat to rise and escape. When large glazed doors are opened, a natural draft cools the bowling greens, reducing the need for mechanical cooling systems. The building’s tilt-up slab walls and concrete apron act as thermal mass, absorbing heat during the day and radiating warmth during cooler winter evenings. The use of a highly translucent fabric ensures even natural light throughout the day, significantly reducing the need for artificial lighting. At night, low-energy LED up-lights illuminate the reflective fabric, providing even lighting without creating shadows or inconsistent light levels on the playing surface. The large-span tension membrane structure became the heart of the project, guiding its design from inception to completion.

The complexity of the project was heightened by the site's challenging geological conditions. Situated on an ancient riverbed, the ground was composed of unstable sedimentary materials prone to liquefaction during seismic events. This required an intricate design to accommodate significant lateral displacement. A complex structural steel system and base isolation were incorporated to allow the building to return to its original geometry after seismic shifts, ensuring the safety and longevity of this important public space.

The installation of the structural steel and tension membrane structure was highly sensitive due to the seismic design requirements. A meticulous installation plan was devised, including temporary support towers with sliding bogies that allowed the structural steel arches to move smoothly during the process. This careful planning doubled the time spent on design and preparation compared to the six-week on-site installation. Aesthetic considerations were also paramount, with a herringbone pattern incorporated into the membrane’s valley regions, adding visual interest while complicating the fabrication process. However, this craftsmanship was well worth the effort, adding a refined touch to the final structure.

The results speak for themselves. The project was completed successfully, exceeding the client’s expectations and providing a fully utilized community facility. Membership at the bowling club skyrocketed from 80 to over 400 members, with daily use of the new space. The facility’s restaurant and bar have also contributed to its financial sustainability, supporting ongoing club operations and community events. The Naenae Bowling Club has transformed into a thriving hub of activity, bringing new energy to the community.