Activity Centre is an informal term used in modern architecture and planning for an urban space that has a high concentration of multiple land-based and commercial property uses. For example, central business districts in most cities are also commonly known as ‘Centrally Developed Activities Districts’ (CDAD’s).
These urban centres are also known for their vibrant retail outlets, restaurants, bars and clubs. However, they have some important characteristics that make them unique. They tend to be the focal point of a city’s life, attracting people, entertainment, shopping, leisure activities and sports. In terms of its location, activity centres are usually located near busy intersections or along major arterial streets.
The centre of any city’s activity is an economic hub or employment centre. This means the centre of all activity, i.e. an area where many activities are found and where many businesses are located. These can include restaurants, hotels, shopping centres, shopping malls, bars, schools, parks, playgrounds, playground equipment, leisure facilities and many more.
Activity centres are typically found in the middle of town, adjacent to public transportation. It is important that it is located close enough to the centre of the activity to allow easy access. They are generally constructed at the same time with an attached parking lot. However, some activity centres are planned to provide some parking during peak periods. Parking lot facilities are common in these genre’s.
A Centre is often a mixed-use facility. There are several uses that a Centre can hold. These use different functions and may be classified into: residential; commercial; industrial/manufacturing; educational/retail; civic/cultural/social; government/public service. Generally speaking, centres tend to be designed with a central area for a residential use, which is usually surrounded by outdoor recreational areas, an outdoor entertainment space, a wide public pedestrian and cycle path.
The Centre’s design must allow for access to both indoor and outdoor spaces. The use of outdoor spaces will depend on the users. Some activities may require exclusive use of outdoor spaces, while others may require access to open spaces like courtyards or public parks or pathways. Most centres are designed to cater for children, seniors and other groups with special requirements such as athletes, individuals with disabilities and senior citizens.
In terms of space, an activity Centre usually has an average of one or two floors. Some are higher than others. These levels are often covered in concrete slabs or concrete floors. The flooring can be installed over concrete slabs or is cement, vinyl, concrete or tile. The Centre’s walls are typically made up of corrugated metal and can be insulated to provide heat and insulation.
The usage of concrete is used to improve the performance and efficiency of a Centre. These concrete slabs will act as a foundation for the structural framing, which is built to resist temperature changes and moisture. Corrugated metal and insulated walls are used for walls and floors. Seamless panels and roofs can also be incorporated into the concrete frame to help prevent condensation and water damage.
All activity centres are designed with a purpose. A Centre is designed to provide facilities, programs and activities for users. The Centre is not merely used for entertaining. Activities can be held for social, educational and spiritual purposes.
Activity Centres can be privately or publicly funded. Publicly funded Centres tend to be found in schools and institutions, while privately funded Centres are usually built by the Centre’s owner. These Centres usually have many activities for children and adults and may be located within the premises of a residential building. Many of the publicly funded Centres include pools, fitness centers and gyms.
Centres are designed to provide a place where children can play and learn. These centres have indoor playground equipment, games and exercise equipment. They are also used for recreational activities such as indoor basketball courts, bowling alleys, skating rinks, sports fields and outdoor gardens.
Activities Centre’s are a valuable asset to our communities because they provide quality, safe places for parents and families to meet, interact. Many activities are designed to engage and educate. These activities may be social, educational, athletic or just fun.