Dubai, U.A.E. — In 2005 Dubai introduced an unusual concept for a tennis court, one that was built atop the 1,000-foot-tall Burj al Arab. Now, 10 years later a Polish architect has come forth with another unusual court idea, one beneath the sea.
Condé Nast Traveler reports that Krysztof Kotala, a notable architect who has studied at many world class institutes, including London’s Royal Institute of British Architects, has envisioned an underwater tennis complex that could be built just offshore in the Persian Gulf, between the Burj al Arab and the Palm Jumeirah islands.
The design of the underwater complex would be part sports arena and part aquarium, creating a unique viewing experience for both spectators and players alike, as they would be privy to an abundance of sea life above the court.
As with any great engineering feat, daunting challenges will arise. One challenge includes creating a single piece of glass large enough to cover the structure and strong enough to withstand the pressure of the water. If the project does move forward Kotala believes the arena would be a perfect location for a fifth grand slam.