02 Feb 2017
Sochi Olympic Village being transformed into science and arts hub
BY Tom Anstey
Dutch design agency NorthernLight is working on the redevelopment of Sochi’s Olympic Vilage, which is turning its former media centre from the 2014 Winter Olympics into a science and art park.
The redevelopment of Sirius Park, which has been at the heart of Russia’s talent development programme, will take place in two phases, ultimately becoming the country’s largest educational attraction at 50,000sq m (538,000sq ft).
Phase one of development will be finished in February 2018, in time for that year’s Fifa World Cup, and will consist of a 6,000sq m (64,500sq ft) indoor science attraction.
Connecting science and art, the unique addition is the “crossover of an art biennale and science gallery”, according to NorthernLight. Included within the centre will be demonstrations of kinetic art, immersive light experiences and bio art, while the attraction will also include design, chemistry and bio labs. In these labs, future exhibits will be shown to the public and children will be invited to participate in the testing of the exhibits.
The second phase of development will include the design and development a number of science zones, each covering 8,000sq m (86,000sq ft). The first zone will look at space and the wonders of the universe, while zone two based on ‘simple truths’ will explore basic science and phenomenology. The third zone, dubbed ‘Matrix’, will cover innovations and future science, while the final zone will be a children’s exhibition dedicated to discovering Russia.
Phase one of development is already underway, with Northern Light starting development of phase two after that. Work is being conducted in conjunction with a national science panel.
The overall development of the Olympic Village aims to preserve the legacy of the Winter Games, with the redevelopment offering meaningful leisure activities, expanding knowledge about Russia and offering an opportunity for young people to grow their talents. The main aim of this scheme is to identify, develop and provide professional support for children demonstrating gifts in technical creativity, art, the natural sciences and sport.
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