Underground Court - Sonora Desert - US x Mexico Border

The structure of the underground court is inspired by the illicit smuggling that occurs as a result of the border wall. The goal is to transform the contemporary, negative undertakings of compromising the wall into positive channels. Tunnels with ladders offer access to the court on either side of the wall, and as you come down the ladder there is a small door where behind a cool basketball court emerges. The court features murals of NBA players as well as ceiling murals from Latino and American artists. 

Underground Court - US x Mexico Border

Underground Court - US x Mexico Border

Underground Court - US x Mexico Border: Section

Underground Court - US x Mexico Border: Section

Bridge Court - Israel x Palestine Border

The title “bridge court” is both literal and metaphorical. Literally, the court is constructed on top of the Israeli - Palestinian border wall, but perhaps, more importantly, serves as a reminder that the border can be penetrated.  The court is an escape from the realities below it, with high walls featuring NBA players surrounding it. The glass roof provides a feeling of being outside but at the same time prevents the players from experiences the conflicting realities of the actual land beneath them. 

Bridge Court - Israel x Palestine Border

Bridge Court - Israel x Palestine Border

Floating Court - Spratly Island Contested Territory

The floating court exists in a remote area of the South China Sea. It has two locations; one right outside a Chinese radar and military post and the other outside an old US wartime ship converted as a military station for eight Filipino soldiers. The court is glass and has no walls or nets. The ball will go in the water often - especially if the players are not very good - but that is encouraged in the design as the hot climate will make a refreshing dip in the tropical waters enjoyable. 

Floating Court - Spratly Island Contested Territory

Floating Court - Spratly Island Contested Territory

Floating Court - Spratly Island Contested Territory - Chinese Home Court

Floating Court - Spratly Island Contested Territory - Chinese Home Court

Floating Court - Spratly Island Contested Territory - Filipino Home Court

Floating Court - Spratly Island Contested Territory - Filipino Home Court