Canadian studio MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects has expanded a thermal spa and baths complex in Quebec, adding a concrete plinth that houses an outdoor swimming pool and a hidden relaxation room.
The Balnea Spa and Thermal Reserve is tucked away close to the ski town of Bromont in the Appalachian Mountains, southeast of Montreal and north of Vermont, USA.
Balnea Spa's new concrete volume extends the sun terrace and creates a swimming pool on its roof
As part of a significant expansion project initiated in spring 2023, MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects has added several facilities within a concrete volume that faces the spa's picturesque view of Lake Gale.
"The generous new thermal bath and spa terrace grounds the scheme within the landscape," said studio co-founder Brian MacKay-Lyons, who led the design team on the project. The pool is designed to have an infinite edge, with a view of Lake Gale beyond
"The use of natural materials enhances the reading of the 'spa in nature' while offering a wide range of haptic user experiences," he added.
The new plinth extends a gently stepped terrace with levels populated by seats and loungers facing the lake and mountains beyond.
Wildflower beds add hints of colour and Corten steel sunshades cast shadows between the decked and paved areas
Between areas of timber decking and flagstone paths, wildflower beds add hints of colour and Corten steel sunshades cast shadows.
At the end of the terrace, the new concrete vol...