Emergent, the Los Angeles, US-based architectural practice, has been selected to design the new Civic Sports Centre and 2013 National Games Arena in Shenyang, China.

Located adjacent to the city's Zhongshan Park, the 123,000sq m (1.3 million sq ft) complex has been designed for a range of uses and will "connect" the city's urban and natural life. The National Games Arena will feature a series of multi-level entrances and 2,000 fixed seats above the mezzanine level, with a further 2,000 temporary seats below.

When the temporary seats are removed, the 40m x 70m (131ft x 230ft) space will be able to cater for NBA games, shows such as Disney on Ice and rock concerts. Meanwhile, the Civic Recreation Centre and Swimming Arena buildings will be combined to provide a multi-storey complex, with a restaurant and galleries also proposed.

Design features will see the National Games Arena incorporate an opaque skin made from an aluminum panel with a thin-film solar technology in roof areas. Meanwhile, the Civic Recreation Centre and Swimming Arena will feature column-less spaces in pool and large gaming areas.