Architects: MET Architects
Year: 2020
A Timeless Landmark Restored
Architectural Heritage in Basel
Nestled in Basel’s Wettstein district, the Gymnasium and Swimming Hall Vogelsang stands as an architectural gem, designed by cantonal architect Hans Luder and unveiled in 1967. This iconic structure, forming part of the Vogelsang school complex, has recently undergone a thoughtful renovation, breathing new life into its timeless elegance.
A Symphony of Concrete and Oak
The building’s distinct character unfolds in the convergence of two perpendicular halls, complemented by ancillary spaces and a former caretaker’s house linked by an elongated canopy. Exposed concrete and expansive oak windows bear witness to the era’s commitment to high-quality, functional, and durable materials, showcasing architectural choices that have stood the test of time.
Modern Integration without Compromise
The renovation project, executed by MET Architects, seamlessly integrated new components, including insulation, fire protection, safety measures, and modern electrical systems, ensuring compliance with contemporary standards without compromising the spatial integrity of the original design.
Revitalizing Spatial Qualities
Every aspect of the two gymnasiums underwent meticulous revision – from windows to floorings. Newly insulated roofs now feature clad acoustic panels, while oak-veneered wall panels were carefully repaired and sanded. Changing rooms don a spectrum of finely graded green and blue hues, enhancing orientation within the space.
Elevating Accessibility and Comfort
An innovative addition is the installation of a new elevator with dual-sided doors, facilitating wheelchair access to both the basement floor and the swimming pool level. The anteroom adjacent to the swimming hall boasts large steps offering seating for visitors, framing a picturesque view through a window into the swimming hall.
Modernizing the Swimming Pool Experience
The swimming pool received a technical upgrade and a visual transformation with the incorporation of penny tiles. White and black tiles on the walls create dynamic contrasts against the blue water, while a graphic pattern on the back wall introduces a play of perspectives, injecting the pool with a renewed identity.
Preserving Legacy with a Contemporary Edge
The overarching goal of this meticulous conversion was to honor the building’s original splendor while addressing the aging aspects. The result is a harmonious blend of the 1960s aesthetic with contemporary sensibilities, ensuring that the Gymnasium and Swimming Hall Vogelsang remains a timeless landmark in Basel, standing as a testament to architectural legacy revitalized for the present and future.
