Multiple possibilities

Project name	Multiple possibilities
Location	French .Languedoc-Roussillon
Design by	DHA Architectes & AMG Architectes
Product	Chroma

Multiple Possibilities
Around 30 km south-west of Montpellier in the French region of Languedoc-Roussillon lies the traditional spa of Balaruc-les-Bains, which has been popular since the 16th century for the high quality of its thermal water. New thermal baths were built there right on the banks of the Mediterranean Étang de Thau lagoon which were opened in spring 2015 catering for up to 4,200 spa guests a day. An essential contribution is made by ceramic tiles from AGROB BUCHTAL which significantly characterise the overall design.


Multiple possibilities: Planned by architectural agencies DHA (Lyon) and AMG Architectes (Montpellier), the outer appearance of this building is consciously reminiscent of a ship and fully reflects the concepts of water, health and wellness. On a total of five floors and spanning an area of 16,800 m², the new building offers space for numerous pools, relaxation, waiting and treatment rooms as well as a health and conference area. The light-flooded bathing area on the ground floor forms the focus where five large, slightly curved pools feature massage jets for the back and legs as well as wading pools. Thanks to expansive glazing, this central area can be easily seen from the promenade along the sea while visitors inside are offered a splendid view of the Mediterranean Étang de Thau lagoon and the limestone hill of Mont Saint-Clair in the distance.



Insights and outlooks: This transparency is typical of the interior design as a whole. A significant role is played by the color white which the architects consciously selected, e.g. for the tiles inside the pools: on the one hand, to attribute the water a pleasantly natural color and on the other hand, to achieve a particular lighting mood by means of reflections. The design in other areas is also determined by bright wall surfaces and tiles. This is not only of advantage in terms of cleanliness and hygiene but also conveys a fresh and friendly impression. Distinctive feel-good atmosphere: The relaxation areas however feature dark ceramic floorings which exude intimacy, peace and security. An attention to detail is expressed by the ceramic moulded parts which represent a particular strength of AGROB BUCHTAL when it comes to realising comprehensive concepts. Some examples include covings as easy-toclean yet elegant transitions from walls to floors, or practical shallow channels of subtle design. In high-traffic and waiting areas, color was applied specifically as a reviving element: wall surfaces in vibrant shades of pink, yellow or green ensure highlights while simultaneously lending corridors a charming dynamism. This goal is also underlined by the fact that the technical infrastructure required for operation generally remains concealed for visitors: pipes, ducts and equipment are discreetly “hidden” within the cleverly-designed building. Highly practical: Apart from the aesthetic aspects, Balarucles-Bains is also a prime example of practicality. This is ensured by extensive application of the Emotion, Geo 2.0 and ChromaPlural series offered by AGROB BUCHTAL. Along with numerous colors and sizes, these collections are also available in a wide variety of non-slip categories covering an extensive range: in areas where shoes are worn, tiles with R10 or R11 non-slip protection are seldom used. For the many barefoot areas whose very nature means that water makes them slippy, the entire range of relevant non-slip classes A, B and C was used. Another effective feature is represented by the HT upgrade applied in the factory. Tiles from the Emotion and ChromaPlural series featuring this upgrade are extremely easy to clean and have an antibacterial effect without chemicals. Moreover, by decomposing disturbing or harmful odours, they also contribute to a healthy indoor climate – advantages which are fully benefitted from in Balaruc-les-Bains and not only in the central swimming area, but also in the changing areas, showers, treatment or conference rooms, corridors, reception areas and other busy areas.

  

Bains Thermal Baths,
Languedoc-Roussillon,
France Architect: DHA Architectes, Paris, Frankreich · France