The facility combines sports and recreational functions, offering a sunbathing area and swimming pools in the summer, and a unique space for snowboarding acrobatics in the winter, as well as viewing terraces overlooking the Royal Castle and the Słonne Mountains.
A Phased Investment
The modern Recreation, Sports, and Rehabilitation Center was created based on the idea of relating to the surrounding landscape – a space interwoven with a river, mountain ranges, valleys, and a road. Each of these elements is a linear structure, so the designed facility references the surrounding forms. This solution allows for a phased development, which is crucial for the project. The proximity of the plot determined the most important objectives for the project and, at the same time, its distinctive visual elements. Firstly, maintaining the connection between the city and the river through the building's intersections and shape modulations. Secondly, framing the view of the Royal Castle and providing green roofs for the facility's users.
The building was inspired by the natural landscape and the city's fascination with winter sports. A synthesis of a snowboard halfpipe, summertime views of the hills surrounding the city, and terraces with cascading pool basins became the design's defining feature. The building's undulating form is emphasized by a façade with linear panels shimmering like a river, flowing seamlessly into the roof structure. A valley formed from the roof, culminating in a pool basin, descends like water steps through successive external basins towards the San River.
The building's structure is bisected by two viewing axes. On one side, it connects the river valley towards the city center, while on the other, it offers a view of the Royal Castle and the mountain landscape. The axes in the building's structure reflect wedge-shaped indentations that invite users into the building's interior. A distinctive feature of the building is the multifunctional green valley. In summer, open to the southern sun, it serves as a place for sunbathing, while also connecting the indoor recreation area with outdoor pools. In winter, it is a unique attraction for winter sports enthusiasts, becoming a unique snowboarding facility in Poland. Additionally, it serves as a unique viewing terrace, opening on one side to the Royal Castle and on the other to the landscape of the Słonne Mountains and the picturesque San Valley.
