SWIMMING POOL COMPLEX WITHIN THE SPORTS AND RECREATIONAL PARK IN ČEŠČA VAS

LOCATION
Češča vas, Slovenija

COMPETITION YEAR
April 2020

ARCHITECTURE OFFICE
Ravnikar - Potokar arhitekturni biro d.o.o.

ARCHITECTURE
Robert Potokar, Tanja Košuta, Mina Gutović, Mateja Šetina, Špela Ščančar

COLLABORATORS
Vilko Šuligoj, Bojan Rizman, Tomaž Bizalj, Medard Hafner, Miha Uršič

PRIZE
2nd Prize

The design of the new swimming pool complex in Češča Vas, near Novo Mesto, is rooted in its specific relationship to the existing velodrome, the geometry of the site, its orientation towards the cardinal directions and key views, as well as the applicable urban planning guidelines. These parameters define the fundamental spatial organisation of the complex, positioning the building with its indoor pools on the eastern side of the site, while locating the outdoor Olympic-size pool to the west.

The volume housing the indoor pools occupies the eastern part of the site and, together with the existing velodrome, establishes a distinctive urban space within a predominantly green and natural setting. The space between the two buildings becomes a shared connecting square, conceived as a flexible gathering place capable of accommodating a variety of sporting events and public activities.

The roof over the swimming pools is conceived as a folded and faceted surface, clad in a light-coloured metal finish. Its articulated geometry gives the volume a certain softness and lightness, creating a deliberate formal affinity with the fabric dome of the velodrome, which remains the dominant architectural element of the ensemble.

The interior of the covered swimming pool is likewise conceived in timber – a natural and sustainable material that contributes to reducing the building’s embodied carbon while, above all, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Timber slats are integrated into the ceilings and walls to enhance the acoustic quality of the interior. Along the external glazed façades, the slats are executed in aluminium to ensure greater durability and resistance to the demanding conditions of the pool environment.

The integration of the swimming pool complex into its natural setting is further reinforced through an extensive planting strategy. New trees are introduced partly as avenues along the newly proposed roads and parking areas, while within the enclosed pool complex a more informal, clustered planting scheme combines deciduous and coniferous species. The existing mixed woodland forms the natural backdrop to the entire complex, completing the landscape setting and reinforcing the dialogue between the architecture and its surrounding environment.