Katrien Vanderlinden’s artistic basketball courts are redefining public spaces, seamlessly blending cultural narratives and functional sports design. Her latest project in Abu Dhabi’s Reem Central Park, which features a stunning design inspired by Middle Eastern Sadu weaving, is just one example of her creativity. Let’s explore more of her transformative works.
Abu Dhabi: A Basketball Rug in the Heart of the UAE
In 2024, Vanderlinden unveiled her vision for a basketball court resembling a traditional Middle Eastern rug. The bold patterns and painted tassels evoke the intricate designs of Sadu weaving while respecting the court’s practicality. Located in Abu Dhabi’s Reem Central Park, the project is a collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism, celebrating Emirati heritage while serving as a hub for play and community engagement.
Berlin: A Kaleidoscope of Colour
In Berlin, Vanderlinden’s signature artistic touch adorns another basketball court. Known for her geometric patterns and vibrant colour palettes, this court offers a visually stimulating space for sports enthusiasts and art lovers alike. The bold design encourages creativity on and off the court, making it an iconic feature in the German capital’s urban landscape.
Other Iconic Artistic Sports Spaces
1. Pigalle Basketball Court, Paris
Paris’s Pigalle basketball court system is a trailblazer in merging art and sport. Updated by Ill-Studio and the Pigalle brand, its vivid colour gradients and urban flair have transformed this space into a cultural hotspot, inspiring similar projects globally.
2. Kawasaki Track, Japan
A standout example in Japan is the Kawasaki athletics track, where the running lanes form part of an expansive, mural-like design. The vibrant colours serve both athletes and visitors, blending utility and artistry.
Why Artistic Courts Matter
Projects like these don’t just provide functional sports spaces—they’re statements of community, culture, and creativity. Vanderlinden’s Basketball Court Flooring, along with others, showcase the power of design to enrich public areas, making them destinations where sport and art meet in harmony.
Whether it’s Abu Dhabi, Berlin, or beyond, these courts elevate the playing field—literally and metaphorically—proving that where art and sport collide, magic happens.
