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Situated on the eastern coast of Lake Constance in western Austria, the Am Kaiserstrand bathhouse offers breathtaking vistas of the Bay of Bregenz, Pfaender Mountain, and the Swiss Alps foothills. A 42-meter-long pier extends from the pile structure, connecting it to the recreational zone of the same name on shore. Recently revitalized, the entire complex underwent enhancements, including an extended coastal promenade, new pedestrian and bike paths, and the refurbishment of a historic hotel complex.
Architectural Marvel
The bathhouse stands as the crowning jewel of the complex, seamlessly blending into Vorarlberg’s architectural tradition. Built atop a platform supported by 30 reinforced concrete columns, the structure boasts a simple, single-story design. It encompasses a glazed restaurant with a terrace leading to the sundeck, alongside changing rooms, showers, and WCs.
Flexible Design
An innovative feature of the bathhouse is its adaptable design. High folding shutters, forming the outer layer of the facade, and sliding-glass doors allow for versatile use of the space. Whether fully open to embrace the surroundings or closed for protection from adverse weather conditions, the building offers a range of spatial configurations to suit different needs.
Sustainable Elements
Throughout the bathhouse, wood takes center stage as a sustainable material choice. From the columns and beams to the horizontal cladding of the facade and all interior and exterior floors, renewable resources dominate the design. Untreated silver fir sourced from nearby forests adds a touch of local authenticity, with its natural weathering over time further enhancing the building’s character.
Environmental Consciousness
In line with sustainability principles, the bathhouse incorporates an environmentally friendly energy concept. Controlled ventilation and heat recovery systems optimize energy efficiency, while an air-to-air heat pump pre-warms incoming air during the heating season. This approach ensures that the restaurant space remains comfortable while minimizing energy consumption.
The Am Kaiserstrand bathhouse stands not only as a symbol of architectural excellence but also as a testament to harmonious integration with its natural surroundings, offering visitors a serene and environmentally conscious retreat by the shores of Lake Constance.
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