The need to equip the thermal complex with dedicated family spaces led to the creation of a new pavilion, which is functionally integrated with the other pools and fits seamlessly into the diverse context of the existing buildings. The decision was made to forgo additional distinctive features in favor of maintaining visual continuity with the "Edificio delle acque," which has a more contemporary style and is functionally connected. The concept was developed around the beautiful mountainous environment, aiming to enhance the views, capture sunlight, and maintain a close relationship with the surrounding green area.
The building is visible from many angles, including from above, as it is situated in a basin. This required a landscape integration study, treating the roof as an additional facade by incorporating large skylights and green roofing to mitigate visual impact and improve the internal microclimate. Given the context of buildings varying in type and construction period, the choice was made to use simple forms and a uniform palette of materials and colors, ensuring the building blends seamlessly rather than standing out as another dissonant element. Inside, the design is distinctively characterized by using wood, a material native to the mountainous environment. The wooden interior structure echoes the peak of the building section designed by architect Gino Valle.
The design process prioritized environmental considerations, incorporating energy savings, the use of appropriate materials, and bioclimatic aspects to capture sunlight in a context characterized by surrounding shading. The choice of using a laminated wood structure aligns with the surrounding environment and the intent to prioritize compatible materials, a choice also reflected in other components. High importance was given to aspects related to internal comfort, especially through the design of high-performance systems, acoustics, and safety.
The building features a linear, rectangular design with a protruding southern structure housing the access tower for the outdoor slide. The roof, supported by a wooden structure, has two slopes parallel to the long sides: the eastern slope includes large skylights, while the western slope is covered with green roofing. The mostly glazed facades allow excellent views, particularly to the east, where the mountains are visible. The design benefits from the continuity between the windows and skylights, providing a comprehensive landscape view. Facade materials include aluminum window frames and cladding made of aluminum strips, consistent with the roofing. Seamless integration between the interior and exterior, as well as the connection between garden levels, were key elements. The building's base level was raised above the ground floor of the adjacent building due to groundwater presence. Terraced areas, either paved or grassy, connect the different garden levels, resulting in a pleasing interplay of levels and materials that blend with the lawn. In the northeast corner, an outdoor pool with a whirlpool was built, directly connected to the interior. Inside, as requested by the client, the expansion includes facilities primarily aimed at families. A free-form pool was designed for both swimming, with two 20-meter lanes, and recreation, featuring attractions like a vortex, sprays, whirlpools, and a "beach" for small children. Additionally, there is a spiral slide that starts and ends inside the building.
The new pavilion may not be notable for its size or grandeur, but what truly impresses is how users thoroughly enjoy and fully engage with the attractions: the pools, the slide, and the relaxation areas. This reflects that the fundamental goal of the concept—to meet the need for enjoyable spaces for families—has been successfully achieved.
Archest is an architecture and engineering company established in 2006 through the union of two design studios. Composed by over 90 architects, engineers and technicians with considerable experience in the integrated design and management of public works, even of considerable complexity, in Italy and abroad. The headquarters are in the province of Udine. However, Archest comprises offices in Milan, Rome, Trento and Dubai.
After the concept phase, the architectural design is developed in an integrated manner, and with the coordination of architects, by the in-house engineering office, which channels the project on the tracks of sustainability, industrialisation and digitalisation through an integrated BIM modelling process, thus the entire design and execution phase can be kept under control while remaining consistent with the initial project idea.