Aquaticum Waterpark | 2020

Debrecen, Hungary

Architects: BORD Architectural Studio
Client: City of Debrecen
Photographers: Tamas Bujnovszky

NECK OF THE WOODS

Debrecen is the second most populated city in Hungary, but it is also the Eastern region's cultural and scientific center. As part of the municipality's ambitious long-term development plan, the objective was to redesign the old spa dating back to the 1930s. The location, Nagyerdő, is the unique city park of Debrecen, protected by Natura2000 EU natural reserve program.

THE MAIN CONCEPT

As per concept, the team does not wish to compete with other aquatic institutions. The experience is designed to favor a fusional, immersive contact with nature, contrary to the stereotypical adrenalin-focused waterpark approaches.

The design focuses on the life-giving aspect of water and the breathtaking forest environment. The waterpark emerges as a hidden oasis locked up in a box deep within the woods. Its unusual artistic compositions, the folded vertical water surfaces make the impression of an endless horizon of water intersected by transverse walls of exposed concrete.

The project became an exciting experiment for us. Breaking with the traditional, horizontal spa concepts, the company created a three-dimensional experience.

EXPERIENCING WATER

The long, flat single-story volume of the main entrance settles in the landscape beautifully featuring a green roof, the curvy shape of which resembles a wave. The first thing one sees from the direction of the entrance is the central visual piece of the waterpark: a 196m x 26m sized floor-plate, 12m high cuboid hosting various functions. On the roof equipped with sunshades and loungers for relaxation, the gaze is lost in the forest. The one-of-a-kind facade displays the custom-made reflective water-like glass wall and features triangular openings with trampolines, transforming visitors into natives submerged into this contemplative water world.

GREEN DESIGN IN PRACTICE

In order to stay true to the design's philosophy, it was essential to plan on using ecological energy resources to cover the waterpark's vast energy need. The complex heating system uses the heat released when the thermal water is cooled to suit human needs. A heat pump system was also installed, which uses the water's heat waste flowing out of pools.

This way, more than half of the establishment's entire energy need can be provided by green energy. The Aquaticum waterpark opened its doors to the public in July 2020, and now it is ready to provide an incomparable experience to its visitors with its unique atmosphere.