RACH CHIEC SPORT ARENA

University of Architecture Ho Chi Minh city

Project idea

The building is part of the Rạch Chiếc Sports Complex, serving as a competition venue for martial arts and small-scale combat sports. As a multipurpose facility that must accommodate various sports disciplines, its design is expressed through architectural lines, from the landscape to the overall form. This approach not only creates flexible spaces for diverse activities and events but also provides dedicated zones for specific athletic functions.
A standout feature is the boldly extended roof, which shelters and embraces a large audience, conveying a sense of strength. The roof is supported by large hollow columns, evoking durability and solidity. Along with other details, the structure maintains a minimalist aesthetic while still exuding a distinctly athletic vibe.

Project description

In this project, functionality was the top priority. With a capacity of 2,500 seats and the need to accommodate diverse user groups, controlling the scale became a key challenge. After careful consideration, I opted for a two-stand seating arrangement instead of an "O"-shaped layout. This choice allowed functions to develop vertically rather than spreading horizontally (since two stands require less floor area but rise higher compared to an "O"-shaped configuration). This vertical approach freed up space for expansive roof structures and outdoor training areas.
On the master plan, the side adjacent to the complex's landscape (the rear of the building) was designated for internal use—athletes and staff—providing a quieter, more manageable flow. The edges facing roads feature plazas to welcome large crowds from the complex's main thoroughfare. Notably, the longer side incorporates service functions, forming the building's commercial facade.
With limited green space in the large plazas, the cantilevered roofs play a crucial role alongside trees. At the main plaza, a prominent overhang shelters and greets visitors during events. For the indoor arena, the roof design utilizes diffused and indirect lighting to enhance energy efficiency.
Overall, this is a flexible, accessible, and visually striking structure that effectively meets its functional demands.

Technical information

The structure primarily uses steel and reinforced concrete. The interior floors, columns, and beams (including the stands) are all made of reinforced concrete. The walls in the competition area also use reinforced concrete for fire resistance.
Most other spaces in the building are leased, so except for technical brick walls, the remaining partitions are temporary, using curtain walls or drywall.
The roof (large-span space) consists of a flat steel truss system. By stacking the trusses on concrete columns, the roof space easily accommodates technical systems like sound, lighting, or screens. This is a simple and practical structural solution. The roof has four layers: primary steel trusses, secondary steel truss grid, steel purlins, and roof cladding panels.
Outside the building, the overhangs use cantilever beams. However, the large front canopy has an excessive span, so it is supported by hollow columns—efficient for structure, weather protection, and aesthetics.
Overall, the project applies simple yet effective technical solutions that are easy to construct in Vietnam.

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