ILIRIJA SPORTCITY
LORENZATELIERS
Client: City of Ljubljana
The Ilirija swimming pool with its 25-metre outdoor pool, designed by Stanko Bloudek in 1929, was dilapidated and no longer met sporting requirements. The listed entrance building was retained. In 1995, the new capital city of Ljubljana decided to build an Olympic 50-metre pool with additional infrastructure. Unlike in many cities, the new Športni Park Ilirija was built in the city centre – a sustainable decision that significantly reduces traffic and celebrates the national importance of sport. Restored historic access to Tivoli Park The political decision not to relocate the Ilirija sports infrastructure to the outskirts of the city but to leave it in the historic centre has proven to be sustainable and forward-looking in terms of urban planning. The relocation of the railway line in 1942 cut off the site from Tivoli Park, which was also exacerbated by the increasing traffic on the surrounding roads. The Baroque entrance to the park from Latterman Avenue is being restored, providing an ideal connection between the city centre and Tivoli Park for pedestrians and cyclists. The isolated bathing facility is being transformed into a new mobility hub with a public square as an urban element. An urban building block with many functions. A 50-metre Olympic and a 25-metre training pool, built with modular stainless-steel Myrtha system, along with four sports halls, a piazza, a café, a loggia terrace, a museum, and open spaces will create vibrant inner-city urbanity while ensuring economically sustainable operation. In addition to sports, many areas will also be available for cultural and social events. Iconic roof Three main buildings, traffic routes and all functions are spanned by a curved roof covering 12,000 square metres. The steel structure has a span of 54 metres. Photovoltaics on the roof enable a zeroenergy building. Atmosphere through space, light and colour. Diverse, complex spaces create an exciting urban atmosphere that is lacking in modern sports facilities on the outskirts of the city. Characteristic features include countless views and vistas that offer constant contact with the street, railway, park and city. The deliberate use of daylight and artificial light facilitates spatial perception. The shell remains untreated, with fixtures in three shades of blue. Urban benefits Ilirija‘s users are competitive athletes and leisure guests. Sport, culture, education, dialogue, encounters – right in the heart of the city.