Architects:0E1 Arquitetos

Area:2691 ft²

Year:2022

Photographs:Roberta Gewehr

Lead Architects:Ana Cristina Castagna, Anna Carolina Manfroi, Gabriel Giambastiani, Mario Guidoux

Program: Jiu-Jitsu Academy

City: Porto Alegre

Country: Brazil

The Oden Jiu-Jitsu Academy was commissioned by a client seeking a more inclusive and diverse space for the practice of gentle art. The academy's design is inspired by the cultural and ritualistic aspects of the sport, creating a unique and inspiring environment for athletes of all levels.

One of the most notable features of the academy is its diffuse lighting system. These "light walls," as they are called, are made up of translucent polycarbonate surfaces with built-in lighting and emit uniform light throughout the space, creating a welcoming and inviting atmosphere. The light walls required a complex assembly process, using vertical wooden studs positioned every 90 cm to create free space on the inside for the installation of LEDs. In addition, two types of openings were designed for the space: a sliding polycarbonate door with a metal frame and internal lighting for the tatami area, which integrates with the surface when closed, and an open space for the changing rooms.

This project sought to translate the rituals of jiu-jitsu practice into physical space and therefore established a path by which practitioners traverse three distinct lighting environments. Starting from the outside, athletes enter the dojo through a glass entrance, which provides a connection to the outside. Then they move along the ground floor, next to the tatami area, guided by natural light and the light wall. As they ascend the stairs to the mezzanine, the lighting is reduced, creating a more focused and introspective atmosphere. The mezzanine features a box covered in backlit polycarbonate, which houses the changing rooms, from which visitors emerge as athletes. Upon returning to the ground floor, the path passes behind the light wall and arrives at the tatami through the backlit door.

The training area is designed to accommodate multiple training sessions simultaneously, with classes for large groups on the ground floor and individual sessions on the mezzanine, where a lounge area provides space for athletes to relax and socialize before and after training, promoting a sense of community and belonging.

The walls of the academy are filled with works by local artists, creating a visually stimulating environment that adds cultural richness to the space. The exhibitions will vary over time, providing a dynamic and constantly evolving experience for athletes and visitors.

The Oden Jiu-Jitsu Academy is a center for jiu-jitsu enthusiasts and culture in general, contributing positively to the community. The "light walls," composed of translucent polycarbonate surfaces with built-in lighting, emit diffuse light, resulting in a well-lit and welcoming environment. The simplicity of the external appearance of these dividers contrasts with the ingenuity of the assembly of the elements, providing a truly unique experience for visitors.