The Češča Vas Pool Complex in the heart of the recently renovated velodrome-dominated space in Novo Mesto, Slovenia, is a fine example of thoughtful design. Designed by Ljubljana-based Enota Architects, the design focuses on preserving spatial relationships and minimising visual disruption. The architects have strategically harnessed the topographic properties of the sloping terrain, resulting in a pool design that complements rather than dominates the landscape.

The complex, in its current phase, houses two interior pools, with plans for an exterior Olympic-size pool in the subsequent phase. The spatial design of the current complex cleverly uses partially dug-in levels, creating elements that are distinctly elevated from one another. It gives the complex an amphitheatre-like ambient quality. The lowest-lying pool area aligns with the westernmost edge of the site, ingeniously transforming the cut terrain into grandstands for visitors. This design choice not only enhances the overall aesthetics but also reduces the structure's façade envelope surface, contributing to increased energy efficiency and lowered investment costs.

The most striking feature of the Češča Vas Pool Complex is also perhaps the most important. The ingeniously designed roof is eye-catching and spatially unifying. The low floating roof serves as a consolidating element, allowing the surrounding landscape to flow seamlessly across the pool area. The intentionally unobtrusive roof houses all non-aquatic programme elements, creating a harmonious coexistence between the structure and its natural surroundings. The roof's structural design, featuring a concealed grillage based on wall beams, facilitates large spans and minimises the need for numerous vertical supports. The resulting visual effect is a roof volume that appears to hover above the pool surface, seemingly floating. It provides wide views of the surrounding nature from the inside.

Elaborating on the roof, the studio says, “All a pool truly needs is a roof. To address this thesis, we opted for the most archetypal solution: a geometrically outlined hipped roof from which it is immediately evident that it is a roof. It is covered with wooden shingles, which is reminiscent of traditional roof covering. The basic structure is designed as a coffered ceiling with a grillage based on wall beams, which allows large spans and the integration of non-pool-related spaces within the roof structure. In this way, the roof can be placed as low as possible above the landscape, while allowing different heights inside depending on the placement of the programme.”

The material palette of the pool complex has been deliberately kept simple. The façade enveloping the floating roof is clad in natural, unvarnished timber boards. It is set to age gracefully over time to blend seamlessly with the adjacent forest. The green roof further enhances the integration into the natural environment, acting as a nod to local rural development. The amphitheatre-like spaces use local concrete with various surface finishes, maintaining a homogenous aesthetic. The interior exudes warmth, with the bottom side of the floating pool roof coloured in an intense, inviting hue, serving as both a shelter for users and an invitation to the surrounding exterior space.

The spatial organisation of the facility is as pragmatic as it is aesthetically pleasing. The program levels, strategically placed between existing plateaus and terrains, create a solid foundation for energy-efficient construction. The entrance level, set lower than the main plaza, ensures separation and protection from traffic areas, creating a sheltered entrance square. The deepening of levels not only forms amphitheatre-like spaces but also provides outdoor catering spaces and stands for various events. The multifunctional pool complex consists of rooms of different sizes and heights, optimising space utilisation and facilitating short functional connections.

In addition to being pragmatic and aesthetic, the pool complex is also designed with inclusivity in mind. The elevated pool area, connected by grandstands, ensures versatile access for all visitors, offering both observation points and recreational spaces. An elevator connects the two levels, allowing seamless access for differently abled and disabled individuals, and promoting a welcoming and accessible environment for all.

The Češča Vas Pool Complex is a worthy example of how simple spaces become extraordinary in experiential quality when effectively and thoughtfully designed. The pool complex form follows function and the natural landscape is not just a backdrop but an integral part of the architectural narrative. The careful consideration given to the roof design, materiality, and spatial organisation ensures a sustainable, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing addition to the existing velodrome-dominated space. As the complex evolves with the addition of an exterior Olympic-size pool, it promises to continue to be a harmonious blend of modern functionality and natural beauty.

Project Details

Name: Češča Vas Pool Complex
Location: Češča vas, Novo mesto, Slovenia
Year of completion: 2023
Design Firm: Enota Architects
Project Team: Dean Lah, Milan Tomac, Jurij Ličen, Nuša Završnik Šilec, Polona Ruparčič, Sara Ambruš, Eva Tomac, Eva Javornik, Urška Malič, Rasmus Skov, Sara Mežik, Jakob Kajzer, Peter Sovinc, Carlos Cuenca Solana, Goran Djokić