This building is a self-sufficient resource – it produces twice as much energy as it needs, generating 14,000 MWh of electricity and an equal amount of heat in 2019. A closed-loop biogas system from municipal waste powers the water park, and surpluses flow back into the city, creating an ecological symphony.
Facility synchronized with the city infrastructure.
This innovative complex located in Silesia – one of the most polluted regions in Europe – operates in symbiosis with a sewage treatment plant that also functions as a biogas CHP plant. Together, they create an energy-sufficient system that meets its own needs and feeds the city grid, combining recreational functions with green energy production and educational space.
From waste to energy – how does it work?
The process begins at the municipal wastewater treatment plant, where methane and CO₂ are captured as biogas instead of being released into the atmosphere. The CO₂ is then directed to algae, which absorb it, simultaneously purifying and enriching the fuel. This prepared biogas powers cogeneration units that simultaneously generate electricity and heat.
The energy produced is sufficient to meet the needs of the treatment plant, fermenters, and the Aquapark, with any surplus distributed to residents: in the summer, nearly half of Tychy households' hot water comes from the Aquapark.
Inspired by nature
Back to local heritage
At the very heart of the saunarium space, we turned to local heritage and created a spa bath using an brewing kettle, in past used in the local beer brewery. The initial design for the spa enclosure and bottom plate was later adapted to match the specific model available on the secondary market. To ensure a perfect fit, we analyzed the dimensions of several models - focusing on diameter, height, and installation possibilities. For the wall finishes, we used facing tiles made from reclaimed historic bricks, once again giving new life to salvaged building materials.
This design is further complemented by the spa’s unique offering of beer baths, blending relaxation with local tradition.
An interior shaped by waves
The overall design is driven by flowing lines and breaking waves, present both in the building's exterior and its interiors. This idea is emphasized by finishing details, such as the striking "tree" in the recreational pool hall and decorative, wood-effect moldings that create a dynamic rhythm on the walls.
Gamification in architecture
An integral part of the complex is the Water Academy – a multimedia educational zone. This space serves both educational and cognitive purposes, complemented by entertainment elements that teach through play. The Water Academy is divided into five thematic zones with diverse scenography. The main theme is the broadly defined element of water. It is a land of knowledge that will allow you to find answers to pressing questions and is sure to delight every visitor. The first subzone is Secrets of the Depths – home to the Bathyscaphe, where you can observe the depths of the sea. The next zone is Water Elements – a place that teaches you how powerful and yet dangerous water is. Next, we move on to the Nature of Water and Water Energy, where you can independently activate a water turbine. The final subzone is the Water of Life. All subzones conclude with a test to test your knowledge, and at the very end, there's a Super Quiz. You can compare your achievements in the quiz with those of others.
New outdoor sauna
The new outdoor sauna "Daisy," designed for sauna sessions, opened in 2023. Daisy is a Finnish sauna with temperatures up to 110°C and a four-level bench system that can accommodate over 110 people at a time. It was built as part of the expansion of the existing Saunarium next to the sauna garden, next to the Tyska Bania. The sauna is equipped with modern audiovisual systems controlled via DMX. Its interior features dynamic LED lighting and dry steam generators.
