Termalija Family Wellness inspired by vernacular structures
Termalija Family Wellness inspired by vernacular structures

Termalija Family Wellness inspired by vernacular structures

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

Usually, the development of these types of complexes results in a series of extensions that slowly fill the space, openly manifesting the different construction period and design. ENOTA adopted a rather different approach in the renovation of Terme Olimia, and with each new building, they sought to improve the situation in terms of urban planning, ensuring that the spa area is increasingly connected with the surrounding nature

Termalija Family Wellness inspired by vernacular structures

The same goes for Termalija Family Wellness: the new structure is located on the site of the former winter covering of the outdoor pool. The cover was supposed to be opened every summer, but in practice, this was never done due to the complexity of the mechanism. With its size and shape, the membrane cover stood out significantly from the surrounding buildings

Termalija Family Wellness inspired by vernacular structures

In the plans for the other buildings, part of the space required for the spa was carved out in underground levels, reducing the footprint on the lot. In the case of Termalija Family Wellness, however, it was not possible to go underground, so the intervention required the design of a large structure, which the architects drew inspiration from in the shapes of the surrounding vernacular structures

Termalija Family Wellness inspired by vernacular structures

The large roof over the water area was divided into a series of smaller segments to prevent its scale from overpowering the surrounding environment. Seen from a distance, the shape, color, and scale of the new clustered structure of tetrahedral volumes, which also provides increased static resistance, is a continuation of the group of pre-existing rural buildings, visually extending into the heart of the complex

Termalija Family Wellness inspired by vernacular structures

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