'the big top' _ Odsal Arena

'the big top' (Odsal Arena) is a design thesis project detailing the proposed redevelopment of the former Richard Dunn Sports Centre in Odsal, Bradford into a 7,000 person capacity multi-use arena for music and arts performances, which is to be utilised during usual downtime by the production / set design / staging industry. Led by Paul King, the design studio 'Reuse, Reimagine, Reform' explores the challenges and creative opportunities posed to architects when working with existing buildings, recognising the importance of adaptive reuse in the coming years as we strive to meet climate targets.

The former sports centre was scheduled for demolition in 2022, however plans were halted following 'surprise' Grade II listed building status after a successful campaign by the Twentieth Century Society. Now vacant for almost five years, Bradford Council could genuinely benefit from creative design ideas for the future of this landmark structure.

The proposed design (featuring a two-part new roof structure which significantly increases internal volume) challenges many of the restrictions placed on listed buildings. The thesis stands to argue that drastic, unconventional interventions can be suitably justifiable as long as they explicitly continue and reference the embodied narrative of the structure.

The project is grounded in extensive research, documenting the building's conception, vision, success, perception, and architectural appreciation. Discussion with the original architect Trevor Skempton provided essential background knowledge, and what was originated in concept form in 1972 as 'Odsal Big Top' now shows potential for complete transformation from a sports and leisure centre to a major performance venue.

Researching newspaper articles sparked a 'tabloid-style' graphical approach, documenting the envisioned turnaround story of the proposal's execution. Forming a multi-step phased approach was key to addressing the major issues facing the site: negative public perception, concern over redevelopment commercial viability, and access and integration.