Abstract:

This project serves as a synthesis between radical formal movements and the timeless rituals of classical thermae. An urge for an “unearthed,” nucleated structure, combined with the necessitation of controlled movements led to an exploration of nontraditional geometries and artificial replications of organic structures. This organization, unlike the radial or gridded organizations traditionally seen with traditional bathhouse and roman typologies revealed a deeply geometric cellular structure. Tectonically we grappled with the idea of a geode, a discovery that happens between the intersection of the exterior and interior envelope. Our interior operation was inspired by the geometries of the tiered hot springs of Pamukkale, Turkiye. A beautiful series of spheric pools cascading down the landscape, we capitalized on the unique circular geometries, applying them to the building vertically and three-dimensionally, carving from the interior form to create a unique, yet humanly familiar cave-like structure. Continuing the integration of natural forms, we used these spheres to inform the design of our pools. The tiering concept also manifests in the offset floors guiding bathers from terrace to terrace, allowing for a restful exploration, not unlike the hot springs of Turkey. The structure rests itself in the levee of Austin’s Trinity River, a thrilling application of exploratory movements, practical theory, and the embodied rituals of heat, water, and gathering.