Professional Documents
Culture Documents
KASHMIR
JAMMU AND KASHMIR
Session 2022-23
By
Fouqia Majid Karimi
18ARC09
SUBMITTED TO
Ar. Iqra Rafiq Baba
Fouqia Majid
Bachelor of Architecture
Dissertation: 2022-23
School of Architecture
Kashmir, Jammu, and Kashmir
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CERTIFICATE
It is hereby certified that this Dissertation entitled Recreational Center-
A Comprehensive Study on Design and Community Engagement
has been submitted by Fouqia Majid, Entry No. 18ARC09 in the partial
fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Bachelor
of Architecture, Session 2021-22.
Recommended By:
Accepted By:
(Head -SoA)
Jury Members:
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DECLARATION
No content of this Dissertation has been copied from any other dissertation/thesis
report in part or whole. If at any stage it is found that this is significantly copied
from any other resource, the evaluation of this report and accordingly grade award
shall automatically stand canceled.
(Signature of Student)
Fouqia Majid
Entry No.: 18ARC09
B. Arch., Session: 2022-23
School of Architecture
Kashmir
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The originality of this Thesis has been checked using the appropriate plagiarism
checker/software and the following parameters are compiled (tick one).
(Signature of Student)
Date: 31-08-23
Counter-signed
(Signature of Guide/Supervisor)
Date:
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I would like to express my appreciation to my dissertation guide, Ar. Iqra Rafiq, for her
constant support and guidance, in accomplishing my goal. I would like to thank her for providing
the sample materials, teaching me easy methods of citation and referencing, and also helping
me structure my dissertation.
Finally, I would like to thank everyone closely or remotely related who helped me complete my
dissertation.
Srinagar, 31-09-2023
Fouqia Majid
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Table of Contents
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4.0 ANALYSIS ......................................................................................................................... 27
4.1 Inferences ....................................................................................................................... 27
5.0 RECOMMENDATION .................................................................................................... 27
6.0 CONCLUSIONS ............................................................................................................... 28
7.0 REFERENCES ................................................................................................................... 30
8.0 ANNEXURE: PLAGIARISM CHECK CERTIFICATE ................................................ 32
xix
TABLE OF FIGURES
Figure 1 Understanding the different levels of recreation. ____________________________________________4
Figure 2 : Different activities that can be done at the time of leisure. ___________________________________5
Figure 3 : Definitions of leisure, play and recreation _________________________________________________5
Figure 4 : Active recreational activities can be cycling, exerecises, yoga. _________________________________5
Figure 5: Passive recreational activity can be a picnic with the family which a also a mode of relaxation. ______6
Figure 6: Outdoor recreation space like an urban park with spaces for yoga, cycling and walking. ____________6
Figure 7: Indoor recreational spaces can be gyms ___________________________________________________7
Figure 8: Sher- e- Kashmir Indoor Stadium – Wazir Bagh _____________________________________________8
Figure 9: Indoor Sports Hall – Munshi Bagh ________________________________________________________8
Figure 10: Indoor basketball court _______________________________________________________________9
Figure 11 Climbing wall in an indoor park _________________________________________________________9
Figure 12: Arcade zone in the indoor recreational center ____________________________________________10
Figure 13 locker room of gym or swimming area to keep the belongings ________________________________10
Figure 14 indoor basketball court _______________________________________________________________10
Figure 15 Technical drawing of the basketball court ________________________________________________10
Figure 17 Indoor volleyball court ________________________________________________________________11
Figure 16 Technical drawing of the volleyball court _________________________________________________11
Figure 18 Technical Drawing of badminton court __________________________________________________11
Figure 19 indoor badminton court ______________________________________________________________11
Figure 20 Indoor tennis court __________________________________________________________________12
Figure 21 Technical Drawing of tennis court ______________________________________________________12
Figure 23 Technical Drawing of table tennis court __________________________________________________12
Figure 22 Indoor table tennis court _____________________________________________________________12
Figure 25 Outdoor football court _______________________________________________________________13
Figure 24 Technical Drawing of football court(outdoor) _____________________________________________13
Figure 27 Technical Drawing of a football court____________________________________________________13
Figure 26 Outdoor cricket ground _______________________________________________________________13
Figure 28 Technical Drawing of badminton court __________________________________________________14
Figure 30 Dimensions of the multi-functional hall __________________________________________________14
Figure 29 Dimensions of Sports Hall _____________________________________________________________14
Figure 31 Standard dimensions of arcade games according to Neufert _________________________________15
Figure 32: sectional elevation of the indoor trampoline park depicting the heights._______________________15
Figure 33 Different activities in an indoor trampoline park ___________________________________________15
Figure 34 Maryland Heights Community Recreational Center _________________________________________16
Figure 35 Indoor court of Maryland Heights ______________________________________________________16
Figure 36 Indoor jogging Track _________________________________________________________________17
Figure 37 Nanatorium ________________________________________________________________________17
Figure 38 Gym with glass facades with a view of natatorium _________________________________________17
Figure 40 Ground Floor Plan ___________________________________________________________________18
Figure 39 First Floor plan ______________________________________________________________________18
Figure 41 Top view of Tongxiang National Fitness Center ____________________________________________18
Figure 43 Conceptual planning of different activities and their sequence and order in the designing of the
building. ___________________________________________________________________________________19
Figure 44 the staircase in the atrium acts as sitting place and color used in the atrium makes the place vibrant
and welcoming______________________________________________________________________________19
Figure 45 Sports hall with multiple courts ________________________________________________________20
Figure 46 Multipurpose hall with the basketball court and stackable seating ____________________________20
Figure 47 The interconnection of different activities and their sequence and ordering in the plan ____________21
Figure 48 Ground floor plan ___________________________________________________________________21
Figure 49 First Floor Plan ______________________________________________________________________21
Figure 51 Third Floor plan _____________________________________________________________________22
Figure 50 Concept of placement of different activities_______________________________________________22
Figure 52 elevation of the Ahmedabad University Centre.____________________________________________22
Figure 53 Top floor with football turf and solar roofing ______________________________________________23
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Figure 54 Multipurpose hall with sports courts and stackable seatings _________________________________23
Figure 55 Sectional elevation showing the digonal light effect in the building ____________________________24
Figure 56 Top view of the building with solar roofing under the football turf and running track _____________24
Figure 57 Elevation showing the balcony area and strip windows on one floor for direct lighting ____________24
Figure 58 second floor plan ____________________________________________________________________25
Figure 59 First Floor Plan ______________________________________________________________________25
Figure 60 Ground floor plan ___________________________________________________________________25
Figure 62 Fifth Floor Plan______________________________________________________________________26
Figure 63 Fourth Floor Plan ____________________________________________________________________26
Figure 61 Third Floor plan _____________________________________________________________________26
xxi
ABSTRACT
"Recreational spaces are where architecture becomes a vessel for the joy, laughter, and
wellbeing of communities." - Tadao Ando
Recreational centers are spaces of community engagement for people to relax and
socialize after coerced activities or routine work schedules. The architecture and design
of these spaces are as important as any other design of the structure. The user
experience, accessibility, function, and planning will have a direct impact on the level
of community engagement. The concept of accessibility or inclusivity for all is essential
for any community center to achieve a target footfall. The overall motive of a
recreational center in a city should impact the well-being and health of the community.
The design of the recreational center should encourage people to use it daily or
regularly.
xxii
B.Arch. Dissertation 2022-23
1.0 SYNOPSIS
1.1 Introduction:
The globalized and urbanized world with the factor of individualism has an impact
on the lives of people. Technology and the digital world taking over has immensely
altered the life of people good or bad. The day-to-day life of people at one end has
become easy but at the same time more inactive leading to physical, mental, and social
problems. With all the technological advancements, there is a need for a place for a
social gathering called a “home away from home” where people can relax and
socialize. This place can have all the activities for all users of all generations. [1]
The time away from work or the free time is the leisure time when people can indulge
themselves in different kinds of activities. But this recreation holds a different
meaning for every other individual. The concept of recreation for the elderly can
certainly differ from that of a young but in the end, the class age doesn’t matter. What
matters is the essence of recreation – the joy, vigor, and compassion to regain what is
lost in the day to rejuvenate at leisure hours. [2]
Recreational spaces are the public spaces that reflect the culture and well-being of the
city. They help in enhancing the life of the society and can prove economical. The
vibrancy of this place will attract visitors all around and promote the art and culture
of society.
The concept of recreational spaces and community engagement is changing and at the
same time growing all over the world. Architects and urban planners at all levels
prioritize creating good public spaces both indoors and outdoors. A good recreational
environment improves the vibrancy of the city and can also prove economical.
Architects and urban planners need to design taking care of all the dimensions of the
users, their activities, multiple uses of space, weather conditions, and much more.
Each problem should be taken care of and not neglected at all.
1.2 Aim:
The dissertation aims to focus on the design of recreational centers, their impact on
the social and cultural life of people, and the need for such spaces in society.
The concept of urbanization and individualism in the world today has a direct impact
on the social life of people of all age groups. The younger generation is leaning
towards a digital world with no interactions with new people, fewer activities, and no
cultural and social exchange making them dull and inactive. One of the prime reasons
for this to happen is the lack of community or public places for interactions.
Recreational spaces are taking new forms. The idea of indoor recreational spaces is
emerging.
The city of Srinagar has no indoor recreational spaces hence the lack of community
engagements. So, this dissertation will help to understand their need and set rules and
requirements for the recreational center.
1.4 Objectives:
1.5 Scope:
- This study will help us to understand the absolute function, design, and need of
public recreational spaces and how they add value to their users.
- This research will unravel various indoor aspects of recreation and new forms of
recreation.
1.6 METHODOLOGY:
2.1 Recreation
The term recreation in “free dictionary” is defined as “refreshment of strength and
spirits after work”. [3] The word recreation has been re-created in it so it means to
recreate the lost life after a tiring day, the rejuvenation or the restoration. Recreation
is termed as an activity that people engage themselves in when they are not working
or have free time. These activities have universality and are even socially accepted by
all. These kinds of activities can be music, sports, amusement, biking, etc. Some of the
leisure activities are considered recreational. [1], [4], [5]
2.2 Leisure
The terms leisure and recreation are often co-related. Leisure and recreation are a part
of each other though not the same.
The term leisure in Brittanica is defined as “freedom provided by the cessation of
coerced activities, particularly time free from disagreeable work or duties”.[6], [7]
Leisure is universal and holds different meanings to an individual. So, any uncoerced
time or activity is leisure.
In the book “Park and Recreation Professional's Handbook” by Amy Hurd & and
Denise Anderson the term leisure is determined in three primary ways; Leisure as
time, Leisure as Activity, and Leisure as state of mind. [4]
2.1.1 Leisure as Time: the time after any coerced work when one has to do nothing. All
individuals spend this time the way they feel relaxed or relieved.
2.1.3 Leisure as a State of Mind: Figure 2 : Different activities that can be done at the time of leisure.
The passion one has to do any source: Free Vector | Set of cartoon icons family active holidays parents with
kids in various activity (freepik.com)
activity and is motivated from
inside with an optimistic approach is leisure as a state of mind.
Passive recreational activities do not have any strenuous activity but act for a
peaceful state of mind. These include
meditation, strolling, walking, playing
mind games, etc. [8]
The recreational activities also depend on
the nature of the space. It should be noted
that the distinction is not always rigid as
some activities can fall into both
categories. The fact that any activity of
recreation preferred depends on the
abilities and capabilities of the user.
Combining both results in the vibrancy
and active atmosphere of any society. [1]
Some of the classifications of activities are:
1) Physical activities Figure 5: Passive recreational activity can be a picnic
2) Social activities with the family which a also a mode of relaxation.
Source: Freepik: Download Free Videos, Vectors,
3) Cultural activities Photos, and PSD
4) Entertainment activities
A great city is defined by its public places. The parks, playgrounds, plazas, and
squares along with the interaction of people reflect the vibrancy and social well-being
of the society. Public space holds great importance when it comes to recreation and
recreational activities.[9] The relationship between public places and recreation is
multifaceted. They promote
physical and mental well-
being, the cohesion of social
and community
engagements, the idea of
inclusivity and accessibility,
and economic growth. These
public places are valuable
assets of the society or a city.
They also make the city
livable. What is more
important is the designing of
these public places where
architecture plays a pivotal
role. Any recreational space Figure 6: Outdoor recreation space like an urban park with spaces for
needs to have good yoga, cycling and walking.
accessibility and inclusivity. Source: Free Vector | Free vector regular sport physical activity people
They should be safe, isometric composition with outdoor scenery and athletic playground
with human characters vector illustration (freepik.com)
sustainable, and functional
promote social interactions, and should reflect the culture of the society.
Recreational spaces give a concept of a place of rest, a place of rest perceived by each
individual according to their recreational needs. Different laurates define recreational
spaces. Drzewiecki defines recreational spaces as a part of geographical space that
promotes different forms of rest and social togetherness in recreation. Some
considered it as a part of the social environment and a connection between cultural
and natural elements. Some suggest that it is a space where people reduce the stress
of everyday routine.[10] So it’s a space of coexistence of nature and man-made
components creating a space of vibrance and social engagement.
There are different typologies and categories of recreational spaces. The division is
based on various parameters such as; the nature of recreation, type of activity, and
much more. Our typology of recreational space is classified as Outdoor and indoor
recreational spaces.
Overall, the changing concept of recreation has paved the way for new forms of
recreational spaces. One such form of recreational space is the recreational center.
indoor facility to keep them active in extreme weather conditions is a need of an hour.
[9], [11]
The indoor recreational center is the new face of the multi-use center with all the
recreational activities at one stop. This third-face social environment provides all the
recreational activities and services that encourage community engagement,
improving the quality of life and a healthier public. The main purpose of any
recreational space is to be accessible to all, cater to the need of all age groups, and
provides a safe environment. The recreational centers are thus the future of the
community with an “ all at one stop” communal gathering place. [12]
1) Indoor Sports:
- Gymnasium
- Multi-purpose court for volleyball,
badminton, basketball, etc.
- Court for racquet games like table
tennis, pickleball, etc.
2) Fitness Center
- Gym
- Multipurpose room for yoga and
other mat exercises.
- Lockers
- Showers
- Restrooms
3) Indoor trampoline park
- Bowling alleys Figure 11 Climbing wall in an indoor park
Source: Freepik: Download Free Videos, Vectors, Photos,
- Climbing walls and PSD
- Foam pits
- Trampolines
Figure 14 indoor basketball court Figure 15 Technical drawing of the basketball court
Source: Source: Freepik: Download Free Videos, Vectors, Source: Dimensions | Database of Dimensioned Drawings
Photos, and PSD
2) Volleyball court:
Min Size: 18 m x 9 m
Total Area: 161 m2
Area of clearance: 369 m2 – 569 m2
Figure 16 Indoor volleyball court Figure 17 Technical drawing of the volleyball court
Source: Freepik: Download Free Videos, Vectors, Source: Dimensions | Database of Dimensioned Drawings
Photos, and PSD
3) Badminton court:
Min Size: 13.41m X 5.18-6.1 m
Total Area : 436.64 m2
4) Tennis court:
Min Size: 23.11 m x 11 m
Total Area : 260.6 m2
Area of clearance: 668 m2
Racquet sports
1) Table tennis :
Total Length: 8.5 m
Total Width: 4 m
Total Area: 3.8 m2
Figure 23 Indoor table tennis court Figure 22 Technical Drawing of table tennis court
Source:Freepik: Download Free Videos, Vectors, Source: Dimensions | Database of Dimensioned Drawings
Photos, and PSD
Outdoor courts:
1) Football court:
Total Length: 8.5 m
Total Width: 4 m
2) Cricket Ground:
Total Length: 8.5 m
Total Width: 4 m
Total Area: 14,775-18,242 m²
INDOOR SPORTS:
1) Bowling Alley:
Total Width:3.56 m
Total length: 18.29 m
Total Area: 88.6 m²
Arcade games:
Figure 33 Different activities in an indoor trampoline Figure 32: sectional elevation of the indoor trampoline park
park depicting the heights.
Source: Trampoline Park equipment has different play Source: What is the Minimum Ceiling Height Required for
zones for playing more fun (wonkaplayground.com) Trampoline Park by ASTM F2970? - Pokiddo FAQ
- Multi-purpose courts
- Play centers
- Jogging tracks
- Outdoor play areas
- Kids zone
- Meeting rooms
- Play centers
- Senior meeting rooms
- Swimming areas with lockers, and restrooms
- Fitness centers with gyms and multipurpose exercise rooms
are also provided
- The characteristic feature of the center is the preschool for the
kids
Figure 36 Indoor jogging Track
Source: Maryland Heights
The interior jogging track is provided all over the building and Community Recreation
the activity areas are in the middle. The 47000 sq ft. swimming Center / CannonDesign |
ArchDaily
pool and more of a leisure pool provide aquatic leisure activities
for both kids and adults. The double-height pool
and multiple ceiling elevations have vertical pool
activities like zip line connections, drop slide
towers, and climbing walls. It also has separate lap
lanes and a tot area with spray features. This pool
is an indoor water park in itself and a great place
for recreation for all generations. [17]Each area is
placed in such a way as to cater to the noise of
harsh traffic streets and allow maximum sunlight
to enter the building. Breakout spaces at every part
of the building for people to sit and relax the way Figure 37 Nanatorium
they want. Statement walls are created with subtle Source: Maryland Heights Community
Recreation Center / CannonDesign | ArchDaily
colors in interiors to make it welcoming for people,
a space that feels safe and vibrant. [15]
The community space overall is a place of recreation with multiple activities in a single
spot. The residents of the area are using this center regularly in their leisure time. The
outdoor area of the complex is used as parking and community events like craft fairs, and
farmers markets acting as a shelter from the noise of the highway.
are provided to create flexibility in the building. The outdoor spaces are used for
multiple activities like exhibitions, flee marks, etc.
- Natural light and ventilation: The optimum use of natural light and ventilation is the
key concept of the design. The placement of areas is done according to the natural
light. Components of the building that need maximum sunlight are places on the
south side and the areas that do not need much sunlight are either places on the
northern or eastern side.
- Community engagement: The site needed a place for community interactions due to
high decibels of noise. The design and facades are done in such a way that they reflect
the interactions and vibrancy of the place.
- Area: 96400 m²
- Location: Wuzhen Avenue, Beijing, China Figure 41 Top view of Tongxiang National Fitness
Center
To improve the livelihood of people, sports and source: Gallery of Tongxiang National Fitness
Center and Li Ning Sports Park / PT
recreation are taken to a level in China. The country has Architecture Design - 16 (archdaily.com)
shifted the concept of sports from professionalism to
mass sports or sports for all. They believe in mass This center aimed to create a fitness and
sports center that offers recreational and athletic activities. They promote community
engagements and aim to be the center of recreational activities in the city of Wuzhen Avenue,
Beijing. This main building has a variety of sports and fitness amenities like a natatorium,
fencing courts, boxing, a gymnasium, and d fitness hall. [18]
The concept was to create an at-place destination for the people of the city. The design was
done in a way that even shopping was considered fitness. This was done to merge activities
and induce communication between different activities. Also, the three-in-one functionality
can be both separate and, in a way, combined. All the functions operated in a divided manner
yet flexible. Introducing shopping and food in the center helps to gain the footfall of people
and induce community engagement.
Figure 42 Conceptual planning of different activities and their sequence and order in the designing of the building.
Source: Gallery of Tongxiang National Fitness Center and Li Ning Sports Park / PT Architecture Design - 16
(archdaily.com)
1) Sports Mall:
The sports mall is a combination of shopping and dining at the same destination. This
sports mall shares a common atrium with the other parts of the center. People have to
walk through the atrium to reach the sports mall. Physical exertion in people helps
them in their fitness and at the same time gain community engagement.
2) Sports Park:
The park space is the buffer and linkage to the building. A jogging track has been
created that acts as the path to the building. Runways are created to induce
communication and linkage between the outdoor and indoor surroundings. This 2.5m
long runway connects different parts of the recreational complex.
3) Sports atrium:
The prime focus of the atrium is its vibrancy
due to different activities induced in a
single place. The bright choice of colors and
geometric patterns and the location of the
large staircase and a climbing wall are an
activity zone in itself apart from the core
linkage of the building. The place is the
epitome of freedom of expression and a
Figure 43 the staircase in the atrium acts as sitting place
sense of belongingness. and color used in the atrium makes the place vibrant and
The overall development of the complex welcoming
has intertwined functions of different sports Source: Gallery of Tongxiang National Fitness Center
and recreational activities. The areas are and Li Ning Sports Park / PT Architecture Design - 16
(archdaily.com)
listed below:
- Stadiums
- Swimming pools for training, competitions, and recreation
- Indoor and outdoor sports courts
- Fitness centers
- The addition of a kids’ zone with new
sports activities such as trampoline, rock
climbing, e-sports, bowling alleys, arcades,
etc.
- Activity zones for adults
- Break out spaces and lounge areas.
Multipurpose spaces: The flexibility of design can be justified by the nature of the
spaces provided. The multipurpose halls
can be used for multiple or versatile
activities. The building has great open
spaces that can also be used for different
purposes. It means the building offers
great flexibility.
- Natural light and ventilation: The key
component of any design is the optimum
use of natural light and proper
ventilation. The building is designed so
that each part receives natural light. The
atrium which acts as a core is also well-lit.
Proper use of light and ventilation Figure 46 The interconnection of different activities and their
promotes sociability and gives a sense of sequence and ordering in the plan
security. Source: Gallery of Tongxiang National Fitness Center
and Li Ning Sports Park / PT Architecture Design - 16
- Accessibility: The important aspect of (archdaily.com)
any design is its universal accessibility.
The provision of barrier-free architecture which includes ramps, stairs, and lifts is
taken care of in design. Even the runways that connect multiple floors can be easily
accessed by all.
- Community engagement: The areas of recreation demand community interactions.
Each area in the building has some activity induced. This increases community
engagement. Also, the provision of shopping, dining, and entertainment at a single
destination acts as a key factor for a good and healthy community. [18]
- Year: 2022
The concept of the building is inspired by the bridge of ‘Galata Koprusu’ in Istanbul that
links Galata to Eminonu and forms a chain of restaurants.
The concept of the functionality of the building is done following the optimum use of natural
light. The ground floor has multipurpose rooms, activity rooms, and clubs placed for their
- Natural light and ventilation: The diagonal cross of natural light from top to bottom
and then bottom to top is an interesting element in the building. the glare is also
prevented in the building by recessing the
windows.
- Accessibility: The accessibility is managed by
assigning the function to the floor. Common
spaces are placed on the ground floors. Further,
the space has a provision of accessibility wall
but no ramps are provided in the interiors of the
building apart from the lifts.
- Community engagement: The teacher-student
interaction is the focus of the building. the
activity zones placed can help in building a
good teacher-student bond. Teachers can
creatively help students. Student engagement Figure 54 Sectional elevation showing the digonal
can also be enhanced. light effect in the building
Source: Ahmedabad University Centre /
Stephane Paumier Architects | ArchDaily
Figure 56 Elevation showing the balcony area and strip Figure 55 Top view of the building with solar roofing under
windows on one floor for direct lighting the football turf and running track
Source: Ahmedabad University Centre / Stephane Source: Ahmedabad University Centre / Stephane
Paumier Architects | ArchDaily Paumier Architects | ArchDaily
4.0 ANALYSIS
4.1 Inferences
After an extensive literature study and comprehensive case studies, it demonstrates
the far-reaching impact of recreational centers. These spaces are not just built forms or
open greens but catalysts for community engagements, the well-being of society,
economic growth, inclusivity, and much more.
The different activities in a single building enhance the physical and visual
connection. It helps promote creativity and reflects the overall cultural and social
values of the community. The concepts of different types of activities in a building
also define the character of the building. the planning inside the building demands
sequence and ordering adding value to the building and avoiding chaos.
The focus of the dissertation is on indoor recreational centers but it is to be understood
that any center is incomplete without it having an outdoor space. Creating equal
amounts of spaces both indoor and outdoor creates a balance in the recreational center
and also makes it more efficient and welcoming.
The use of natural light and ventilation in the building is also important as it enhances
the overall ambiance and has a significant impact on the well-being and comfort of
users. The orientation of activities and the planning of the center also depend on the
factor of natural light and ventilation.
One of the important things in planning the recreational center is the multipurpose
spaces. These spaces have to be versatile and at the same time functional. Multiple
activities should be adjusted according to the need.
The indoor recreational center focuses on the concept of all-at-one-stop recreation. It
requires a comprehensive approach that caters diverse interests of the community.
With this concept accessibility and safety are to be taken care of.
In essence, the inferences drawn underscore the vital role that recreational centers play
in improving the quality of life of people. The planning, accessibility, inclusivity and
services directly impact the success of recreational centers.
5.0 RECOMMENDATION
A recreational center in a city reflects the nature of the city. It enhances community
engagements of a diverse amount of people all around. they serve as hubs where people
grow, connect, and thrive. These centers become the epicenter of interactions and meetings.
They not only promote physical health but the mental well-being. The target for a successful
recreational center is the people and strategies involved to gain the mass population not only
locals but the tourists. This can be made possible by understanding certain factors.
- Inclusive programming: The above dissertation by and large talks about the functionality
and variety in activity. A recreational center in itself has to be a one-stop destination for all
age groups and more importantly diverse activities. This inclusivity and diversity connect
people, in turn increasing the footfall.
- Advertisement and Outreach: The advertisement and outreach can help the center to grow
more and more. The publicity should be done in such a way that each one in the community
would know about the place. Various events and sports should be organized to gain
maximum footfall. Regular advertisements and communications are also vital for the overall
growth of the center.
-Iconicity: Architecture plays an important role in catching the audience. A good façade and
efficient planning will certainly attract people to it. The building in itself should speak for its
function and it should become the landmark of the idea. When the area is known by a
structure, it reflects the iconicity.
6.0 CONCLUSIONS
This dissertation aimed to understand the role of recreational centers. It starts from how it
helps in community engagement to how important is its functionality.
The concept of recreation and leisure revolves around free time after a stressful or busy day.
Recreation is a part of leisure that pertains to the universally accepted set of activities that
can be active and passive depending on the interest of the individual. Leisure is a concept of
free time, activity, or sense of mind.
The emerging concept of recreational centers is the future of the world. The changing world
has new-age activities that need to be catered to. Some of them are outdoor and some indoor.
This dissertation explains more of the indoor recreational center though not neglecting the
outdoor areas. it is an amalgamation of both indoor and outdoor activities thus forming a
complex. Recreational centers are all-at-one-spot complexes where people can have different
activities of leisure at a single destination. It is a place where diverse backgrounds and all age
groups can come and participate in different activities. these activities can be physical,
cultural, or social depending on the individual. The complex should provide a sense of
security and belongingness as these are the common aspects of community engagement.
While designing, one should keep in mind different architectural concepts like light and
ventilation, barrier-free architecture, and iconicity of the building.
The dissertation further explains the requirements and standards of recreational centers used
for different amenities. These standards help to improve the functionality of the design.
In the city of Srinagar, there are no such indoor recreational centers. The outdoor recreational
centers are a growing concept in the city of Srinagar but open sitting and physical activity
zones cannot work throughout the year because of the harsh climate in winter. So an indoor
recreational center is a must.
For proper functioning of the complex, affordability is of prime importance. The policies
involved should benefit all income groups. at least the basic amenities should be provided at
affordable costs.
So we understand that a community center fosters community engagement and the well-
being of the people. They reflect the culture of the city and also prove economical. The
building of community engagement starts with each individual and their participation. One
must clearly understand the need and importance of a recreational center in this era.
7.0 REFERENCES
[1] ‘Thesis - Recreational Spaces : Order, Aesthetics, and Values by Manali Patel - Issuu’.
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