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Where creativity meets functionality to score for athletes, staff and spectators

Hamilton Architects specialise in the design of complex sports and leisure facilities which cater to diverse athletic activities and community needs. Our portfolio of state-of-the-art facilities, multi-purpose sports halls, dedicated arenas and fitness complexes demonstrates our understanding of the architectural considerations paramount to ensuring the functionality, safety and appeal of a sports scheme.

Our designs create a welcoming and accessible environment for athletes, spectators and staff through thoughtful layout planning to ensure efficient circulation and clear wayfinding. Accessibility is crucial, with inclusive design features such as ramps, elevators, and appropriately sized changing rooms.

A flexible approach provides adaptable spaces with modular components that can be reconfigured to meet changing needs, while the integration of advanced technologies such as digital scoreboards and sound systems enhances functionality and user experience.

Energy efficient systems, sustainable materials and natural lighting solutions are used to reduce environmental impact and operational costs. All our projects incorporate features such as clear sightlines for supervision, robust emergency exits, and comprehensive fire safety measures.

Upgrading key components improves performance, safety and user experience, and includes advanced flooring systems, energy efficient, high intensity lighting options, and HVAC systems for optimal climate control.

Aesthetic appeal is important, too, and our projects foster a sense of pride through dynamic forms and bold architectural elements that reflect the energy and spirit of sports in facilities which are highly effective while enhancing community engagement and well-being.

Kingspan Rugby Stadium – an exemplar stadium in which we matched tradition with innovation to create a stunning, user-friendly arena guaranteeing a thrilling experience in a quality sports environment for up to 18,000 spectators at the home of Ulster Rugby at Ravenhill in Belfast.

Northern Ireland National Football Stadium – our design took the beautiful game to the next level with a world class, all-seated UEFA Category 4 stadium capable of hosting major international fixtures and events and is the pride of the Irish Football Association.

Olympia Leisure Centre – a four-storey leisure centre which is helping to reshape leisure in Belfast by offering innovative facilities including a luxury day spa, 25m pool, 120-station fitness suite, 4-court sports hall and 3G pitch.

Newforge Shared Space a unique shared space aimed at helping to build peace and reconciliation in communities across Northern Ireland on a formerly restricted site with a 5,286m2 sports and leisure complex including a sports hall, fitness suites, treatment rooms, changing facilities, and office & conference space.

To find out more about our Sports & Leisure projects check here.