Grimshaw Architects has been selected to design new recreational sports facilities in Doha, following an international competition backed by the Qatar Olympic Committee.

Despite recent allegations of corruption linked to the Qatar 2022 World Cup, Grimshaw's design aims to move away from this and focus on the health and wellness needs in Doha, by providing a haven for Qataris whose current sports participation is somewhat limited.

Grimshaw’s mission was twofold when designing the Al Farjan Recreational Sports Facilities. Funded by the Qatar Olympic Committee, the goal of the project is “to enrich the social activities of the area and promote the culture of sport to the public”. The overall design will include sports fields, landscaping and amenities, an outdoor children’s playground as well as a social hub and cafe.

The site, which will be approximately 37,514sq m (122,749sq ft) has been masterminded to work as a kit of separate components, which can then be deployed anywhere within the country. Centred on a social hub with fabric canopies providing much needed shade – the landscaped space is highly accessible with informal public areas – the design should facilitate inclusion as well as health and wellbeing through the sporting aspects.

Speaking to The Architects’ Journal, Keith Brewis, a partner at Grimshaw, commented: “This project provides an opportunity for Qatar to encourage all its residents to lead healthy lifestyles.” Further details of the project have yet to be announced, however, the development indicates that health and wellbeing is climbing the political agenda in Qatar.