Shankill Tennis Club & DLRCC collaborated on the creation of an outstanding facility which delivers a new benchmark for Indoor Tennis.  The 2000 sq.m indoor tennis centre incorporates three courts capable of hosting events at regional level and in line with ITF (International tennis Federation) requirements for indoor facilities.

Generally, the hall is constructed using galvanised steel columns and trusses covered with a double layer of PVC coated translucent polyester ‘Ferrari’ fabric.  The main structure formed using the Veldeman SFS model, with external walls finished in an architectural cladding to a height of 3m/5m. Preparation of the site involved substantial ground works, with excavated soil helping to define adjacent parkland and a structural ring-beam designed to anchor the new building, along with improvement works to drainage & supply services.

The ventilated indoor facility includes a dedicated viewing gallery/balcony, as well as entrance porch, equipment & ancillary storage areas.  It’s translucent roof membrane enables the benefits of natural daylight which combine with low energy LED lighting to provide an efficient and effective means of controlling/servicing the building.

The selected playing surface is a cushioned acrylic hard court (GREENSET Confort) designed to suit both general club members & elite athletes and capable of hosting international tournaments such as the Davis Cup.  A defined walkway enables ease of access/egress with the flexibility of dividing nets facilitating both group/squad coaching & social tennis.

The new indoor facility is accessed via the existing clubhouse, maintaining the integrity of Quinn’s Rd and the adjacent tree-lined lane which lead to both the nearby beach and Shanganagh Park.  As a contemporary building it sits comfortably within its immediate environment, with an open aspect and adjoining parkland to the west.  The selection of finishes & new planting blends with the leafy surroundings and the neutral choice of roof fabric seems to subliminally merge with the ever changing skyline. A new grassed area provides a ‘transitional’ zone incorporating a boules/petanque pitch, puts the overall development in proportion and helps to present an appropriate balance between the existing outside courts and the new Indoor centre.