Bio-wellness Centre

1. What was the concept behind the project?

Main idea behind this project was creating regeneration-friendly space, which was based on attributes of biophilic design. The concept of the development follows a biomorphic pattern and reflects the principle of the gemmation of the structure, which is visible in nature, e.g. in the development of plants, fungi, on both small and large scale.

In the first phase of the project, development of the environment is planned – the introduction of plantations and water. In the next phase, the development of “Wellness Centre”, adapting to  developed flora, bypassing the areas already cultivated by nature, is being created around low plants, closing them in the atrial spaces. The design concept was also adapted to the natural topography of the site.

2. What was the intent behind the organization of elements across various levels (Architectural, Site, Urban)?

The development in the urban context was based on the natural course of the river, which is flowing on the north of the project area, and on the structure of development of the neighbouring housing estate. Landscaping follows this principle – the natural spread in the landscape. The architecture of the object uses natural forms – arches, vaults, circles.

3. How many iterations were tried to arrive at the final outcome?

Many attempts have been made to combine the assumed design assumptions and the response to environmental conditions. Some concepts assumed closing on the environment by interfering with the topography of the site. In addition, a greater opening of the development to the northern landscape was being assumed. In view of the possible further development of the site, however, the development remained scattered and more compact.

4. Which methods of design investigation?

The research method was to understand the main principles of biophilic design and the impact of this type of design on human health.

5. How was the programme condensed into final?

The project contains many elements of the biophilic design. The use of natural light, water, vegetation is being assumed. The design is inspired by the processes of nature, its variability and complexity. The project was created by condensing these elements with the help of a large number of hand drawings, which gradually, from ideas became more precise.

6. What/How were the materials chosen?

The dominant material of the building is brick, which consists only natural components and is also reusable. Brick masonry also has a large thermal mass, which helps to maintain the energy balance of the building. The outdoor areas – squares, paths and meditation rooms would be made of wood.

7. How was a specific objective attempted to be met?

Space is formed by aggregates of functions with a specific character – services or residential and leisure activities. Numerous private and communal spaces have been planned. The premise invites to explore the space, to discover it.

8.  What is the expansion plan of the project?

The design pattern may be the principle for the creation of a possible further development towards the north.

9. How will the project transform with the passing of time? etc.

The project assumptions can easily be converted into a residential building with a coliving houses character.