Spa Thermal O’Balia | Balaruc-les-Bains, France

Historic revivals

The project is the winner of the design competition for the demolition, restoration, and extension of a Mediterranean thermal spa, located in the city of Balaruc-les-Bains. Aware of the challenges and eager to realize its ambitions, the city initiated the rejuvenation of the the O’Balia thermal spa, incorporating it within a broader redevelopment project of the Hespérides site.

Preservation of Historical Heritage

Great significance was placed on the site’s history, where numerous traces of archaeological ruins, baths, mosaics, and pieces from ancient statues were found, bearing witness to Balaruc’s Roman origins. The design also takes into consideration the present geology and water elements, establishing a visual connection with the local Thau lagoon.

Public and Private Uses

The spa is comprised of large communal areas such as a reception, a gentle activity and collective experience area, a pool hall, a shop as well as intimate individual treatment spaces. It also includes a Sauna Village with steam rooms, a hot spring park with six themed pools and a thermal bath. A large atrium encompasses all administrative functions and has, as a central feature, a spiral staircase made of natural wood.

Design Morphology

The design follows pure, geometric forms that construct wide, open spaces. The rigid volumes are interrupted through a series of consecutive gaps, some of which act as open skylights while others as traditional openings, connecting interior and exterior spaces. Semi-outdoor courtyards are designed around different water elements such as fountains and pools. The outdoor courtyard design adapts to the landscape’s topography and contains artificially constructed trails with running water. The material selection follows a Mediterranean aesthetic, with local natural stone being used for wall and floor cladding.