Architects: Zait Lev Architects
Area: 3600 m²
Year: 2021
Photographs: Eyal Tagar
Lead Architects: Shachaf Zait, Eldad Lev, Liron Goldstin, Noa Pinsker
Oasis in the Arava Desert
Arava Aquatic Sport Center in Sapir, Israel
Nestled in the heart of the Arava region, against the backdrop of Mount Darga, the Arava Aquatic Sport Center emerges as a beacon of recreation and community in the arid landscape. Crafted by Zait Lev Architects, this center replaces individual outdoor pools in various desert communities of the Arava, offering a comprehensive multi-pool sports facility and community center. Beyond serving as a venue for swimming lessons, competitions, and diverse sports, it transforms into an open platform for community activities and public events. The project symbolically reinstates the historical significance of water, not just as a source of life but as a catalyst for social interactions.
Ancient Inspiration Meets Modern Design
Drawing from Qumran and Harmonious Water-Centric Structures
The inspiration for the project draws from the ancient remnants of Qumran, north of the Dead Sea. The cisterns carved into the rock, diverse in shapes and uses, inspired the architects. The harmonious relationship between water and construction observed in Qumran, coupled with vernacular compactness, became a guiding theme for the Arava Aquatic Sport Center.
Water as the Foundation
Three-Dimensional Water Body Unveils Spatial Diversity
At the core of the project lies a three-dimensional continuous body of water, seamlessly integrated into the construction. This water body flows, forms “bridges” allowing movement, and creates a myriad of spatial situations between water and built structures. Catering to various needs, it houses a semi-Olympic swimming pool, children’s pool, toddlers’ pool, waterfalls, and diverse seating and wading areas.
Monolithic Structures and Purposeful Design
Creating Intimate Spaces around Pools
Monolithic structures, varying in dimensions and heights, strategically encircle the pools and water bodies, accommodating the functional needs of the project. Beyond their utilitarian role, these structures contribute to the creation of public spaces. Carved seating, a natural cooling tower, and infrastructure for waterfalls are some of the purposeful elements integrated into these structures.
Innovative Roof Design
Lightweight Roof and Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Transition
A lightweight roof gracefully spans across the buildings. Skylights at contact points with built masses facilitate indirect natural light entry. Extending beyond mere shelter, the roof forms outdoor and shaded spaces around the building’s perimeter. Large sliding doors seamlessly connect the interior with the balcony and south-facing courtyard.
Climate Conscious and Sustainable Construction
Blending with Nature and Harnessing Green Energy
Considerations of climate and sustainability are deeply embedded in the project. Existing mature trees dictate the structure’s placement, providing natural shading to the eastern and western sides and the courtyard. A natural cooling tower, positioned at the construction’s center, induces air movement cooled by contact with water. The large spans of the roof create a static height, acting as an insulated buffer. Photovoltaic collectors on the roof contribute to sustainable energy practices, aligning the project with green construction certification criteria.
In essence, the Arava Aquatic Sport Center transcends its role as a recreational facility, becoming an architectural ode to water, nature, and community in the heart of the Israeli desert.
