Pelota Basque sports court and multifunctional space project in Aguilar de Códes

The project involves the development of a fronton (Pelota Basque playing area) and multifunctional zones in Aguilar de Códes, a medieval village in Navarre. The proposed solution aims to harmoniously integrate the building into its surrounding environment, situated on a complex site in the center of the settlement.

By utilizing a system of levels, the scale of the entire complex is reduced to match neighboring buildings while simultaneously creating an observation area with views of the landscape. The choice of materials such as stone, wood, and Cor-Ten steel reinforces the connection between the architecture and the local characteristics.

To achieve these goals, the project is based on two clear directions: the volume of the complex, which is formed primarily through cutting, and the selection of materials and structural systems used for its realization.

Thus, the project is conceived as a single volume composed of various interconnected parts. The fronton volume is located on the north side, while the base volume, which constitutes the public square, extends to the south. A smaller volume, housing the kiosk and changing rooms, connects to the two previous ones on the sides, serving as a lateral boundary for the area and providing vehicular access to the fronton and entry to the changing rooms from the rear.

To form the ensemble, the project utilizes the terrain's slope. Part of the fronton is sunken into the ground on the north side, and the public square serves as an observation deck facing south. The height difference between these two zones is used to accommodate the stands.

Due to the semi-subterranean implementation of the fronton, the building significantly reduces its visible scale along Calle Mayor, reaching a height very similar to the existing house. The roof structure and the south facade of the fronton have been approached differently, using glued laminated timber as the main material. Specifically, the south facade is formed by a prominent wooden truss that rests only on the ends and the junction point with the perpendicular volume of the kiosk and changing rooms.

This enhances the continuity and connection between the fronton and the public square, as there are no structural elements obstructing movement or view. Ultimately, these operations result in a pleasant, quiet, and functional covered play area. The semi-subterranean fronton conveys a sense of protection and seclusion, while the wooden roof and side facade lend warmth to the interior and provide excellent acoustics for sports activities.

The use of stone is intended to create a sense of continuity with local buildings, as well as with the ruins of medieval towers and walls found throughout Aguilar. Furthermore, integration with the square, the presence of a small tree, and most importantly, panoramic views of the surrounding landscape complete the cozy atmosphere that this new building offers to the residents of Aguilar de Códes.