Fellbach is known for its vineyards, and with the new F.3 aquatic centre tourists to wine country can also enjoy some leisure time practicing their backstroke.
The Stuttgart firm 4a has a number of recreational projects in Germany under its belt, and many more on the go, so the attention to detail visible in this structure comes as no surprise. The 11,320-square-metre complex is low slung, seemingly set into the landscape. In fact the surrounding fields informed how the pools (indoor and outdoor), sun decks, play areas and landscaping were laid out.
As the architects say, “Everything strives towards the open fields and aligns its longitudinal side towards the south. This gives rise to shady and sunny areas, and the visitor’s eye is drawn into the distance.”
Visitors’ attention is drawn inward, in admiration of the amenities’ bold palette. Warm shades were used in the sauna and children’s areas, cooler hues in the sports areas. The most effective use of colour is in the ceiling above the 25-metre-long indoor pool, where coloured bands are integrated here and there throughout the acoustic paneling. Even the locker room, a drab area in most public pools, radiates with bright yellows and greens.
But the centre’s biggest attraction will only be open in summer 2014. A massive looping slide accessed through a green-hued tower – which crowns the building – will be fully operational.
All photos (c) David Matthiessen