aqua dome thermal resort in the mountains of austria

aqua dome thermal resort in the mountains of austria
image © aqua dome

a resort set amid the impressive austrian landscape has been redeveloped using angular and tapered forms to reflect its mountainous setting. the ‘aqua dome‘, which accommodates 350,000 visitors each year, has been designed to be a distinctive landmark for the region, while simultaneously providing guests with a familiar alpine atmosphere.

the elevated bowl-shaped pools seem to float above the ground’s surface
image © aqua dome

externally, a conical volume connects three bowl-shaped pools which seem to levitate above the ground’s surface, featuring underwater music and various lighting effects. the jagged roofs of the observation deck echo the formation of the surrounding mountains in shape and materiality, with locally sourced stone used throughout the design.

a conical tower connects the three pools
image © aqua dome

further recreation space includes a more conventional 25 meter pool as well as separate facilities for younger children. in total, 2,200 square meters of aquatic amenities draw on filtered thermal water originating from a reservoir located 1,865 meters below ground.

the view from the retreat’s observation deck
image © aqua dome

in addition to the two-hundred room hotel, the resort comprises a sauna complex and seminar space. the use of wood and stone is continued internally, furnishing rooms in a manner befitting a high quality alpine retreat.

the jagged roofs of the observation deck echo the formation of the surrounding mountains
image © aqua dome

aerial view highlighting the entrance of ‘aqua dome’
image © aqua dome

south view showing the scale of the site
image © aqua dome

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