PLATINUM WINNER
INTERNATIONAL ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN AWARDS 2023
Geometric hot spring complex.
Studio: Germán del Sol, Architects.
Architect / Designer: Germán del Sol Guzmán.
Design Team:
José Luis Ibañez, Architect.
Carlos Venegas Barría, Architect.
Eliseo Barriga, Job captain.
Country: Chile
Copyright: Guy Wenborne.
20 slate covered pools of natural hot springs waters that flow in plenty along a mountain stream, in the midst of the native forest of the Villarrica National Park in Chile’s southern Lake Country, 450 miles south of Santiago.
Visitors may confidently stroll along a wooden footbridge and disperse to find a hidden pool to take a bath alone, or in good company with plenty of space to share or contemplate the wild natural surroundings.
The hot springs water is distributed to the pools through wooden conduits that run under the walkway and heat it, keeping it always dry and safe. Close to every pool there is always a pavilion built with local wood, with private bathrooms, locker rooms, and a deck to rest.
A big roof planted with wild grasses covers a large secluded space to stay by the open fire, look around in silence or have a relaxed conversation, a cup of tea, a glass of mineral water, or some deli sandwich.
Or just enjoy the sunshine in the deck around. The constant movement of water and fire that always change, but go nowhere, appears in all its natural splendour, seducing everyone into a calm spirit.
They are named Termas Geométricas because it is a work of architecture built with strong primitive geometric elements.
That allows one to be captivated again by natural elements in the midst of the wild brutal nature.
The geometric architecture of the Termas makes it possible to see and enjoy the good side of the unexpected events of nature.
Indulging oneself with this unique experience for the body and soul becomes a sensual rite of water and fire purification which enlightens our senses and arouses our imagination.
Saturated color because our world is not white, and white reflects a purity that is alien to us and seems dead to us. Thick and imprecise line to be firm, but subtly insecure, accepting the error, affirming and doubting the certainties that architecture provides to human life.
Deep and true search for a relationship with the native cultures of all Latin America without being folkloric.
The movement must be contained in the experience of the work in a place, the turns are necessary to respond to life as it is, there is no sculpture, no decorative artifice.