Article source: HVP

A large communal leisure amenity set in the landscape but yet easily reachable in terms of transportation. The building is elliptical in plan, the volume is (to quote the architects) a “flying saucer”. Deliveries are made underground; at ground floor level there is a large entrance hall that functions as a distributor and is connected to the swimming area by floor-toceiling glazing. From the hall one makes one’s way to the changing rooms, swimming zones, sauna area as well as to the lift leading to the upper floor. There are three different swimming areas, each separated by broad relaxation zones with rich planting and separate access to the outside.

Les Thermes

• Architects: Hermann & Valentiny et Associés; Atelier d’Architecture et de Design Jim Clemes; Witry & Witry SA
• Project: Les Thermes
• Client: CNI Les Thermes
• Competition: 2004
• Start of planning: 2004
• Start of construction: 2005
• Completion: 2008
• Usable floor area: 8.950 m2
• Enclosed volume: 60.560 m3
• Outdoor area: 29.000 m2
• Landscape planner: Ernst und Partner
• Project management: Axel Christmann

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