Realising human potential at WAIS by ARCH and Carabiner

In a landmark collaboration between ARCH and Carabiner, the Western Australian Institute of Sport (WAIS) has been reimagined as a facility that not only serves elite athletic performance but also embodies the very essence of human potential. 

In this interview, Stephen Cheney, National Sports Facilities Specialist at ARCH, shares the design journey behind this cutting-edge project, one that seamlessly merges aesthetic form with high-performance function. 

From concept to construction, every detail was carefully shaped through a unified “one team” philosophy, ensuring the centre supports the physical, psychological, and social needs of athletes and professionals alike.

Architecture & Design: What were the key design principles or inspirations behind the architectural concept for the Institute, particularly in reflecting human potential?

Stephen Cheney: The design of the WAIS is inspired by the human body; it mimics the human physique, from skeleton to skin and muscular form, expressing the beauty and capabilities of the human body. 

With its functional aspects, it accommodates athletes of all abilities and supports academic exchange and sports science, reflecting the broad potential of human capability. 

By utilising spatial strategies, particularly through large internal voids that connect core training areas with administrative spaces, collaboration is encouraged and a sense of community is fostered within the building.

How did you approach the challenge of balancing aesthetic beauty with the complex technical requirements of a high-performance sports facility?

Specific material selection considered both the visual and tactile aspects, with the strategic positioning of technical spaces, such as altitude simulation rooms, therapy pools, and labs, becoming part of the narrative rather than isolated service zones.

Close collaboration at the early stage of planning and design with sports scientists, athletes of all abilities, and facility managers was key; this was always a unified "one team" approach.

In what ways does the building design support the physical and psychological needs of elite athletes?

The "one team" planning and design philosophy considered elite recovery, rehabilitation, and injury management. This approach allowed for both a functional and calming aspect throughout the facility to support holistic physical wellbeing.

The design language symbolises connection and excellence, reinforcing the identity, pride and performance of athletes, creating a sense of openness and access to daylight. At the same time, the layout promotes incidental interactions, keeping people social and supported.

Were there any unique materials or construction techniques used to meet the specific demands of the facility?

The WAIS facade presented some challenges in enabling us to mimic the muscular forms – we resolved to use fibreglass panels constructed by a boat builder. The therapy and recovery pools required advanced waterproofing and mechanical systems. 

The integration of a heat exchange system, together with specialised construction methods to create airtight, pressure-controlled environments, was imperative to provide longevity to the facility.

How has feedback from athletes and staff influenced your perception of the building’s success in achieving its goals?

The feedback from our client has been extremely positive. The internal planning of the centre was to facilitate "one team" and encourage collaboration. 

Designing for transparent interactions among athletes, coaches, scientists, health professionals, and facility administration was essential, and this has been successful with remarkable performances at the Paris Olympics and Paralympics.

Images: WAIS by Robert Frith, Darren Smith, Acorn Photo / supplied