abin design studio builds waterfront clubhouse for footballers in india

seeking to introduce a space for passionate local footballers, abin design studio realizes its waterfront clubhouse in west bengal, india. while the team sought to engage the people of the neighborhood, the project was developed in collaboration with a local coaching club along with local builders and engineers. set along the backdrop of an existing water body and overlooking a football field, the community clubhouse maximizes its unique context. the project treads lightly in response to its scenic surroundings where the narrow strip of land is reclaimed to create a responsible waterfront development.

image © edmund sumner

abin design studio organizes its waterfront clubhouse along two levels, with a multipurpose gathering space topped by a viewing deck for matches. the ground level seamlessly connects with the outside and hosts a showering facility. the viewing space above is realized as a rotated volume, accessed by a monumental stair comprising gallery height seating. the team comments: ‘the project is a search, from social existence to the dynamics of space and form, from the beauty of light and shadow to striking a harmony with nature.’

image © edmund sumner

the team at abin design studio elaborates on the development of its waterfront clubhouse, and the influence of its context: ‘located in the rural town of a developing nation, the community faces numerous challenges. there is lack of even basic infrastructure like sanitation, clean water supply, critical health care and regular power. in this context, the aspirations and dreams of a community that improves the quality of one’s life, is never on the development agenda.’ with this in mind, the team seeks a holistic and sustainable development for the community. minimizing the cost of construction, and aiming towards responsible consumption and production, the structure is built primarily with the contribution of the community members. construction materials were sourced locally while the engagement of local craftsmen promoted inclusive and sustainable economic growth of the community.

image by suryan and dang