Darug
New South Wales
The Blacktown Exercise Sports and Technology Hub (BEST) is a world-class facility at the intersection of sport, culture, health and community. Designed by ARM Architecture with Architectus (landscape architects) and executive architect CO.OP Studio, BEST’s striking design is informed by the local multicultural vernacular, including Indian temples, Turkish bathhouses, and Chinese gardens. Its high-tech façade references sporting technology, including 3D printed equipment and apparel, carbon fibre prosthetics and aerodynamic fabrics.
The BEST serves as a centre for education, sports science and allied health, offering integrated facilities equipped with the latest in medical technology. Students, athletes and the broader community can access top tier treatment and rehabilitation services in a welcoming and inclusive environment. BEST is not for elite athletes alone; it has been conceived as a generous community asset aimed at improving long term health and wellbeing outcomes.
ARM’s BEST Hub redefines the term community asset.
It materialises identity in aspiration; relishes in the plurality of ethnic diversity; and renders public a domain that was once secure, controlled and limited in access.
The BEST Hub is a public destination in the broadest terms. It educates (tertiary level sports science faculty); it advocates for physical awareness and movement; it rehabilitates and aids recovery (allied health practice specialising in worker’s, motor vehicle and sports injuries); it provides health services tailored to demographic needs (gold standard medical clinic); and provides facilities and accommodation for athletes of all abilities.
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
