18 Jun 2018 Origami-inspired 'AquaLagoon' opens at Disney and Center Parcs' nature village BYKim Megson
The building’s design was conceived as an origami sculpture and a 'built landscape rising into the sky' photo: All images Jacques Ferrier Architecture/Photo - Luc Boegly
The star attraction at Disney and Center Parcs’ new Villages Nature development outside Paris has been completed.
The practice of French architect Jacques Ferrier have completed the 9,000sqm (96,875sq ft) AquaLagoon, which houses one of the largest indoor waterparks in Europe.
The tiered pyramid structure contains wave pools, water slides and an active river alongside an open-air geothermal lagoon. Other attractions include an interactive farm, hanging gardens and adventure play areas.
The building’s design was conceived as an origami sculpture and a “built landscape rising into the sky.”
Outdoor walkways and terraces allow the public to ascent the exterior of the building and look out at the surrounding development – which includes villas, a forest and a large adjacent lake. At the top, a transparent dome allows natural light to flood the interior space, and provides swimmers below a view of the sky.
The structure's glassy form references and reflects the nearby water, and the surrounding landscape continues this theme with the presence of waterfalls, mist, steam and aquatic plants.
The direction of the winds and the path of the sun have determined the floor plan. Protected from cold northeasterly winter winds, nestling up to the forest, the aquatic park opens towards the west to make the most of cool breezes in warm weather.
Occasionally, an auditorium barge anchors in front of the building - which offers a dramatic backdrop to concerts, light shows and firework displays.
Villages Nature is a 50/50 joint venture created between Euro Disney and Pierre & Vacances-Center Parcs Group. It is situated 32 km from Paris and 6 km from Disneyland Paris.
Developed on 120 hectares (297 acres), it includes 868 cottages and apartments and a host of leisure amenities, including a spa and hammam.
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