Standing here, notice the unique structure of Mei Lam Sports Centre. It’s more than just a building. It’s a community hub. Let’s dive into its story.
Mei Lam Sports Centre opened on September 20 1986. It is located in Mei Lam Estate, Tai Wai. The address is Phase III of Mei Lam Estate. The sports centre covers 2200 square meters. This provides ample space for various activities.
Did you know that the architectural design is quite special? The building resembles a Chinese instrument. This distinctive shape came from a collaboration. Peng Yuling a chief architect and Chow Sau-Tak helped create it. Jiang Zhaolun and Ng Wing-yee were also involved.德信建筑有限公司 built the center.
Ng Wing-yee wanted the Mei Lam Sports Centre to be accessible. He linked it closely to Mei Lam Estate. A covered walkway passes through the building. This makes people feel like they are already inside. Unlike other sports venues at the time Mei Lam Sports Centre uses a lot of glass. Its design is open. This connects the inside with the outside world. It also encourages residents to use the facilities.
Because it wasn’t housing the architects had more freedom. They could experiment within budget limits. For example the roof’s budget was about 3000 HKD per square meter. The team chose materials carefully. They used glass concrete steel and paper stone. They used a “panel design” to enhance lighting. This also reduced noise and added character. This combined practicality with aesthetics.
The design team thoughtfully considered the community. Because of this Mei Lam Sports Centre received an award. In 1987 it won a Silver Medal from the Hong Kong Institute of Architects.
Mei Lam Sports Centre offers many facilities. Inside you will find a multi-purpose arena. This can be changed for different sports. It can be a basketball court a volleyball court or four badminton courts. There are also two squash courts. You can find two table tennis tables there. An activity room is also available. The fitness room covers about 122 square meters. Another multi-purpose room is also 122 square meters. This can be used for dancing and yoga. It includes wall mirrors handrails and sound equipment. Basic facilities include restrooms and locker rooms. There is also barrier-free access.
The Mei Lam Sports Centre opens early and closes late. It is open from 7 AM to 11 PM daily. However it closes for maintenance. Maintenance is on the first and third Monday of each month. On those days it is only open from 7 AM to 1 PM. If a holiday falls on a maintenance day the maintenance is moved. It will be moved to the next working day.
Getting here is easy. You can take the MTR to Tai Wai Station. Use Exit A or D. Several buses also stop nearby. These include the 72A 80 and 80K. Other options are the 81 82K and 85. The 88 88K 283 and 286X buses also run here. Green minibuses are another option. Take the 63A or 63B. The 481B also stops here.
The Mei Lam Sports Centre is more than just a sports facility. It’s a place for fitness recreation and community. Its unique design and thoughtful features make it special. It is a testament to community-focused architecture.