11 Nov 2019
Tokyo 2020 gymnastics venue completed
BY Tom Walker
Construction work has been competed on the Ariake Gymnastics Centre, one of the main venues of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The 12,000-capacity arena will host artistic, rhythmic and trampoline gymnastics events during the Games, as well as being used for boccia during the Paralympic Games.
Created by a design team including architects Nikken Sekkei, the venue will look to showcase "true Japanese craftsmanship" and "embody Japan's woodworking culture".
The design has been inspired by the location's surrounding timber storage district, and will feature the most intensive usage of timber across all Tokyo 2020 venues. In total, 2,300m3 of wood has been sourced from throughout Japan for the project and it boasts one of the largest timber roofs in the world.
The use of wood extends to wooden benches being used across the spectator areas.
"It is a space with a real sense of freedom," said Koichi Fukui, the general manager of the venue.
"This is a venue that will satisfy both athletes and spectators."
The Ariake Gymnastics Centre, is one of five new permanent Tokyo 2020 venues that have now been completed.
In total the Tokyo 2020 Games will use a total of 43 venues – eight new permanent venues, 25 existing sites and 10 temporary venues.
The venue plan highlights Tokyo 2020's commitment to delivering a sustainable Games while creating new spaces for future generations to come together to enjoy sport and take part in community events.
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