Assigned to transform a former loading area into a new plaza, the vision has been to ­create an urban space where sports and cultural life inside Gigantium – Aalborg’s ­biggest sports and culture centre – are carried further out to the outdoor space.

„Sportpark Styrum“ in Mülheim an der Ruhr is a family-friendly and multi-generational sports and neighbourhood park that offers low-threshold, but also challenging and unusual activities.

As aquatic centres are among the highest energy-consuming of municipal facilities, efforts have been made in the design and construction of recent aquatic centres to sever the connection to gas infrastructure, resulting in all-electric facilities. Taio Waldhaus takes a look at energy-efficient mechanical systems in aquatic facilities.

The Rurbad offers something for everyone: maximum flexibility for schools and clubs, a wide range of swimming and course offerings for young and old, a sauna and wellness area as a refuge for those seeking peace and quiet, and a restaurant serving all indoor and outdoor areas.