Plans for the Redesign of AquaOlsberg
© PASSGANG Architekten BDA
(eap) After a defect in a lighting system in the sauna at AquaOlsberg had caused a major fire in October 2021, there are now initial concept proposals for the redevelopment of the thermal bath in the Sauerland region in Germany. The architectural firm Passgang Architekten BDA has presented the town of Olsberg with two concepts for the redesign of the complex.
In addition to a focus on lots of nature and greenery as well as light and colors, the concepts envisage a more inviting entrance area and the expansion of the range of treatments such as massages. In the future, it shall be possible to operate the saunas with electricity from the facility’s own photovoltaic system. In addition to merging the outdoor and indoor catering facilities, there will be children’s zones in both the outdoor and indoor areas. Accessibility is to be further enforced by the redesign.
The brine and sauna areas are to be subjected to significant changes. Both concepts envisage an ensemble of small sauna huts, an additional relax house and an outdoor swimming pond. While concept I envisages a second outdoor brine pool, concept II plans an enlargement of the existing brine pool. This is to be surrounded and roofed by a glass construction in the form of a salt crystal, which can be opened and closed and thus promises energetic advantages.
A further focus on the Kneipp tradition, which reached the town of Olsberg as early as 1895 and makes it the oldest Kneipp location in NRW, is also part of the plans – according to Dipl. Ing. Bernd Passgang, the Kneipp element is a unique feature for Olsberg.
The outdoor pool that currently is in operation would be eliminated in the wake of the renovation, but due to low demand, this would not be a problem, according to the city of Olsberg.
The renovation is planned to take place during the ongoing operation of the thermal spa complex, so that a construction period of at least two years must be assumed. The costs amount according to the calculations of the architect’s office with concept I to 14.7 million and for concept II to 17.4 million euro. The city is currently examining subsidy options for the expansion and renovation before further decisions are made on the future design of the AquaOlsberg. ■
