Earlier this year, Polish architect Krystztof Kotala, Founder of 8+8 Concept Studio, proposed to build an underwater complex situated offshore in the Persian Gulf, between the Burj al Arab and the Palm Jumeirah islands in the United Arab Emirates. The proposed structure will house seven courts, each with rooftop coral reef designed to build an illusion of a natural atoll and will be the World’s First Underwater Tennis Court which could cost $2.5 Billion
While the innovative idea drew much interest from potential spectators, it also raised many technical concerns for engineers and developers. Sara Fray, Director of Engineering and Technical Services at the Institution of Structural Engineers in London, reportedly pointed out that the transparent ceiling would require a continuous pane of glass measuring at least 108 feet-wide and weigh “possibly a hundred tons” to accommodate the court and spectators. Aside from the major concern of leakage, Fray also noted a few things that the complex would need, including a feasible structure that could withstand earthquakes and tsunamis, and an efficient connection to the surface as emergency exit. She even questioned whether tennis players could play in the courts, as it would be difficult to control the light refraction.
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