A simple shape and the use of a limited amount of materials don‘t automatically create an uninspiring architecture. The Olympic Pool in Szczecin, known as the Floating Arena, is an example of a good mix of minimalism and modern requirements. The Polish architects – Marek Orłowski and Marek Szymański – inspired by the work of Frank Lloyd Wright and Mies van der Rohe, decided to integrate a new element with the existing modernist architecture. Glass plays the main role in their project.
Bricks, glass and profiled glass were used in elevation to maintain the simple and rough character of the building. To maintain continuity of the glazing around the project, the architects have used glass corners without any traditional pillars. In the evening an artificial light passes through the glass and creates a visual spectacle.
Numerous elements were designed with Pilkington Profilit™. The product has been used in both the façade and the roof, allowing the light to enter the building whilst presenting a translucent external appearance. This visionary architects’ concept is based on glass of different shapes and textures. The textured glass gives the interior an intriguing look, providing it with soft, diffused light.
The façades are double glazed with Pilkington Profilit™ Amethyst K25 60/7 from the outside and Pilkington Profilit™ Plus 1.7 K25/60/7 from the inside. Both types of glass have an ornamental texture surface, while the outside glass has a blue coating and an internal glass low-emissivity coating. This configuration made it possible to obtain Ug-value of 1.8 W/m²K.
Pilkington Profilit™ proved to be an excellent material also for interior design. It appears in many elements, such as the reception counter and the bar.