A groundbreaking urban transformation project has successfully converted an underutilized space beneath a flyover in Surat, India, into a vibrant community sports and recreation facility. The Under Space Revival project, designed by Aangan Collaborative LLP, demonstrates how neglected urban infrastructure can be reimagined as democratic spaces for public engagement and community activities.
The 1,025-square-meter project, completed in 2025, represents a paradigm shift in urban planning philosophy. Rather than viewing the space under the flyover as merely a leftover remnant of transportation infrastructure, the architects envisioned it as an opportunity to create meaningful public space in the densely populated city of Surat. The project addresses the critical need for recreational facilities in urban areas where available land is increasingly scarce and expensive.
Principal architects Vishal Shah and Vishal Desai led the design team, which included project coordinator Prakruti Desai and project engineer Harry Icecreamwala. The collaborative effort also involved team members Roma Patel and Juhi Desai, working together to create a comprehensive solution that serves multiple community needs. The project was executed by fabricators Shanti Structure Pvt. Ltd. and Mr. Nandan Trada, with specialized flooring provided by Vyara Tiles.
The design approach focused on creating a multifunctional space that could accommodate various sports and recreational activities while maintaining safety and accessibility standards. The architects utilized steel and concrete as primary construction materials, ensuring durability and structural integrity within the challenging environment beneath the flyover. The space features specialized sports architecture elements designed to maximize utility while creating an inviting atmosphere for users of all ages.
Surat, known for its layered urban fabric and entrepreneurial spirit, provided the perfect context for this innovative approach to urban space utilization. The city's rapid growth and development have created both opportunities and challenges for urban planners, making projects like The Under Space Revival essential for maintaining quality of life for residents. The project demonstrates how cities can maximize the potential of existing infrastructure investments while addressing community needs.
The structural engineering was handled by The Edifice Consultant, ensuring that all modifications and additions met safety requirements for public use. Special attention was paid to lighting, ventilation, and weather protection to create a comfortable environment despite the location beneath active transportation infrastructure. The tiling work by Vyara further enhanced the space's functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Photographer Vreidarch studio and Ar. Shivam Vasava documented the completed project, capturing how the transformed space integrates seamlessly into the urban environment while providing a distinct identity as a community gathering place. The visual documentation shows how the project successfully balances practical functionality with architectural innovation.
This project represents a broader trend in urban design toward adaptive reuse and creative space utilization. As cities worldwide grapple with increasing population density and limited available land, projects like The Under Space Revival offer valuable models for creating public amenities within existing infrastructure. The success of this initiative could inspire similar transformations in other Indian cities and urban centers globally, demonstrating that every piece of urban infrastructure has potential for community benefit when approached with creativity and thoughtful design.
