Termalija Family Wellness inspired by vernacular structures

Termalija Family Wellness is the latest of the projects that in 15 years have completely modernized the Terme Olimia in Slovenia: a classic wellness center built in the 80s is transformed into a modern and relaxing thermal center

Functional architecture in harmony with the environment

Usually the development of thermal complexes translates into a series of extensions that slowly fill the space, openly manifesting the different construction period and design. ENOTA, with its architecture projects, has adopted a rather different approach in the renovation of the Olimia Spa: with each new building, they have tried to improve the situation also in terms of urban planning, ensuring that the thermal space is increasingly connected with the surrounding nature.

Renovation for enhanced environmental integration

The same goes for Termalija Family Wellness, whose roof was designed to be removed during the summer months, but in practice, it was never opened due to the complexity of the handling system. The result was a structure that, with its imposing dimensions and unusual shape, visibly stood out from the surrounding buildings, creating a strong contrast with the architectural and landscape context. The new design had to face the challenge of harmoniously integrating the space with a more functional design that is in tune with the environment.

Integration with the context through vernacular architecture

In the projects for the other buildings of Terme Olimia, part of the space needed for thermal functions was obtained in the underground levels, thus reducing the volumetric impact on the lot. In the case of Termalija Family Wellness, since it was not possible to further bury the structures, it was necessary to design a building of imposing dimensions, but without giving up a dialogue with the surrounding environment. The architects therefore designed a structure inspired by the forms and materials of local vernacular architectures, reinterpreting them in a contemporary key to create a volume that, despite its scale, maintains a strong visual and cultural connection with the context.

A segmented roof to reduce visual impact and increase resistance

The large roof covering the water area has been divided into a series of smaller segments, designed to prevent its overall scale from being excessively dominant compared to the surrounding landscape. This division not only reduces the visual impact but also helps ensure greater structural resistance by more efficiently distributing loads. From a distance, the cluster composition of tetrahedral volumes recalls the shapes, colors, and proportions of the existing rural buildings, creating a natural visual continuity with the environment: the new structure appears as a harmonious extension of the original complex, strengthening the perception of belonging to the territory.

Gallery

ENOTA

Nazorjeva 6a 1000 Lubiana, Slovenia