Information

Aquatic centre ‘t Rosco in Ronse is the new recreational attraction of the city. The complex, bridging the transition between green and urban area, is an extension of the existing sports hall and its sports fields. With this extension, a visual and functional connection is made between the various sports and usage options of the existing building and the new swimming pool. Thus, ‘t Rosco transforms from sports hall to sports complex.

Although the aquatic centre and the sports hall are functionally connected by a glass intermediate structure, it looks like they are not. It is almost like the new building is floating. The intermediate structure houses the entrance/controlled access, the extension of the food and beverage facilities and a patio, which creates a visual and functional connection between the new and existing functions. The patio offers a view of the pools and the green landscape behind. The slight difference in altitude within the surrounding landscape is integrated in the design in order to ensure a seamless integration into its surroundings.

This roof is constructed from an orthogonal grid of laminated wooden beams. The 1.75 m by 1.75 m grid not only provides structure, but also contributes to the organizational order of the otherwise free plan: all spaces, skylights and box volumes are tailored to the dimensions of the roof grid. Depending on the activities, rooms can be disconnected or merged. This open structure provides a balance between the open floor plan of the swimming pool and the seclusion of the existing sports hall.

With strategically placed façade openings and an alternation between open and closed volumes, daylight flows in from all sides. An extensive range of different window openings ensures that every type of use can count on an optimal amount of daylight and transparency. Glass openings are also used to allow internal visibility and contact with the outside world. In this way, transparency contributes to the interaction between the building and the environment and invites passers-by to exercise.