The replacement building for the “Sportzentrum Jahnstrasse” in Eschweiler, which was severely damaged in the 2021 flood disaster, is to be constructed on the same site. The new development offers a unique opportunity to introduce fresh urban impetus to the neighbourhood between the primary school to the north, the shopping centre to the east and the residential area to the south, while eliminating the spatial and functional shortcomings of the former building. The indoor pool and sports hall together form a classic sports centre serving schools, clubs and the general public.
The new Jahnstrasse Sports Centre is conceived as a polygonal structure that mediates within its heterogeneous surroundings and, in contrast to the previous building, takes on a stronger spatial presence. The differing orientations of the triple sports hall along Jahnstrasse to the east and the swimming hall facing Steinstrasse to the west shape the building’s form. The resulting offset between the volumes defines both the entrance facing the primary school to the north-east and a protected green area for the indoor pool to the south-west. All circulation routes converge on a central, generously laid out forecourt, which functions as a meeting place for swimmers, pupils and athletes before leading into the entrance foyer.
The sports centre is designed as a clear, functional and economical building with an open, welcoming character. The building mass is reduced to a minimum. The orientation of the water areas towards the south-west, with views to the protected green space, and the alignment of the sports hall towards the south-east determine the overall structure. Visitors enter from the forecourt into a combined ticketing area for the pool and entrance to the sports hall. From here, all areas are accessed via short and direct routes.
All changing and sanitary facilities for the swimming pool are located on the ground floor, providing direct access to the pool hall. The changing rooms and sanitary areas for the sports hall are positioned directly above on the first floor and connected by a generous single-flight staircase; a barrier-free lift links all levels. By concentrating the ancillary spaces of both functions at the building’s core, multiple synergies are achieved. The fitness, gymnastics and training areas in the centre of the building can be used independently or jointly. Saunas and relaxation areas face the protected outdoor terrace to the south.
Through sanitary corridors, visitors enter the light-filled swimming hall, arriving directly at the 50-metre pool with views outside. The non-swimmer area with lounge zones is directly connected. The toddlers’ area is spatially separated by the lifeguard station and is equipped with its own atmospheric and child-friendly facilities. The lifeguard room is positioned to oversee the entire pool level. If required, the planned reduction from eight to six swimming lanes can be achieved simply by reducing the size of the pool hall while retaining the overall building structure.
