Concorso per un centro benessere
a Bologna
The main objective of the project is to create an attractive hub that combines
technological innovation with classical elements.
The relationship with the surrounding area was one of the first aspects we focused on.
We decided to create an enclosure around the building, thereby forming two courtyards at either end of the site. The purpose of this enclosure is to separate the outside world from the activities and functions of the wellness centre.
The exterior features resting areas and pathways interspersed with water features.
The overall layout of the building is divided into thematic blocks with different levels of use.
The first block encountered is the lobby, a single, spacious area combining the communal and flexible functions of reception, a shop and catering facilities. The space is surrounded by glass walls that open onto the water zone and toilets. Within the lobby is the striking gym block, characterised by its screen-printed façades.
Adjacent to the hall is the longitudinal stone block housing changing rooms and administrative facilities. This block, containing the facilities, connects both to the gym and to the block housing the water zone and spa. The composition of this element is highly distinctive. The water zone area is connected to the external enclosure, from which it is protected. Within the void of the water zone are the spa units, which structure and define the pool area.
These dark stone blocks support the roof that houses the roof garden, an extension of the meditation path. The roof features an opaque section—the roof garden—and a section through which controlled sunlight filters. The final block houses the meditation path, situated within an almost entirely windowless space, illuminated by overhead light. Upon entering this space, one is completely removed from the outside world. A ramp that rises gently up to the roof garden passes a series of striking blocks where one can pause. After a series of ascending ramps, the path leads into the roof garden on the roof of the water zone, and is finally connected to the service block, which leads back to the entrance hall.
