Year:
2021-2024
Scope:
Swiming Hall 1630m2
Client:
Ähtäri City
Partners:
Photographs: Exterior Marc Goodwin, Interior Riikka Kantinkoski
The Ähtäri Swimming Hall, known as Loiske (“Splash”), is a new wellness destination located in one of Finland’s most unique settings, right next to the Ähtäri Zoo and the iconic 1970s Hotel Mesikämmen. The project introduces a contemporary swimming hall to an area that combines natural beauty with architectural heritage, creating a space where leisure and landscape meet.
The concept was shaped by the site’s distinctive character: a forested lakeshore and the bold geometry of the existing hotel. The design responds to these conditions by integrating the building into its surroundings while establishing a strong identity of its own.
At the heart of the building lies a 25-meter swimming pool, accompanied by a jacuzzi, cold plunge, therapy pools, and sauna facilities. Freestanding concrete structures divide the pool area into smaller zones, introducing rhythm and privacy within the open hall. The roofline echoes the angular forms of Hotel Mesikämmen, allowing the new building to blend into the landscape while maintaining its own architectural presence.
The design prioritizes connection to nature, timeless aesthetics, and responsible material choices. Large windows frame views of the surrounding forest and lake, reducing the need for artificial lighting and creating a strong visual link between indoors and outdoors. The building’s compact footprint and integration with the existing topography minimize environmental impact, while durable materials such as concrete and timber ensure longevity and low maintenance.
