Termas Geométricas Hot Springs Complex
TERMAS GEOMÉTRICAS HOT SPRINGS COMPLEX
Germán del Sol
CATEGORY
Tourism, therm
LOCATION
Coñaripe, chile
ARCHITECTS
Germán del Sol
AREA
1280.0 m²
PHOTOGRAPHS
José Luis Ibáñez, Felipe Camus
YEAR
2009
STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING
Fernando del Sol V.
JOB CAPTAIN
Eliseo Barriga.
BUILDING CONTRACTOR
José Luis Ibañez G.
17 slate covered pools of natural hot springs waters that flow in plenty along a mountain stream, in the midst of the native forest of the Villarrica National Park in Chile's southern Lake Country, 450 miles south of Santiago.
Visitors may confidently stroll along a wooden footbridge and disperse to find a hidden pool to take a bath alone, or in good company with plenty of space to share or contemplate the wild natural surroundings.
The hot springs water is distributed to the pools through wooden conduits that run under the walkway and heat it, keeping it always dry and safe.
Close to every pool there is always a pavilion built with local wood, with private bathrooms, locker rooms, and a deck to rest.
A big roof planted with wild grasses covers a large secluded space to stay by the open fire, look around in silence or have a relaxed conversation, a cup of tea, a glass of mineral water, or some deli sandwich. Or just enjoy the sunshine in the deck around.
The constant movement of water and fire that always change, but go nowhere, appears in all its natural splendour, seducing everyone into a calm spirit.
The geometric architecture of the Termas makes it possible to see and enjoy the good side of the unexpected events of nature.
They are named Termas Geométricas because it is a work of architecture built with strong primitive geometric elements that allows one to be captivated again by natural elements in the midst of the wild brutal nature.
Indulging oneself with this unique experience for the body and soul becomes a sensual rite of water and fire purification which enlightens our senses and arouses our imagination. Germán del Sol, architect.
