Ještěd in the cage 15 - nomination Libor Šenekel

Libor Šenekel, 2nd MA
Atelier Stolín/Mičeková

Why spas?
Spa culture has a long-standing tradition in the Jizera Mountains, notably the Libvedra spa, which is renowned worldwide for its healing springs. However, there were other spas that have been completely forgotten over time. Among them are the now-defunct peat spas in the village of Kořenov. During their peak, people from all over the world visited these spas. In addition to standard peat treatments, the spas offered an experience and a connection with the surrounding landscape. The peat came from two locations in the Jizera Mountains. The first location was Jizerka, and the second was the peat bog behind the Kořenov sawmill. However, the loss of the healing spring led to the decline of the spa, its sale to a private investor, and its conversion into apartments for the socially weaker; the surrounding park and greenhouses with tropical plants now remain only as ruins that reference a long-gone glory. Therefore, I decided to bring back the tradition of peat spa tourism to the Jizera Mountains.

Location
There were two potential locations for the spa, both being the original peat extraction sites. The site behind the Kořenov sawmill is closer to the original spa building, but due to the surrounding development, noise from the sawmill, and a nearby parking lot for heavy snow removal equipment, it proved unsuitable for the spa's location. The second option was Jizerka, a specific harsh landscape that offers peace, harmony with nature, and unforgettable views. This location is also linked to year-round tourism, which would allow the spa to operate. The choice was therefore made for Jizerka. For Jizerka, as for the rest of the protected area, strict construction conditions apply, including architectural typology of the area and the possibility of building only on original foundations. It was necessary to map today’s defunct buildings and select the most suitable location. Jizerka offered a total of five defunct structures, one of which was located right above the peat bog in the northern part of the settlement. The plot provided not only views of the peat bog but also an unparalleled view of Bukovec and the entire area. Thus, the location for the building was decided.

The Spa
It was necessary to create a building that would blend with the landscape while preserving the typology of the surrounding construction. The main task was to minimize and remove luxury. The spa, like the surrounding landscape, aims to offer a different experience than what people are used to. The spa is divided into two buildings: the main northern building, which was erected on the foundations of a now-demolished structure, draws from the original building typology. This building can be likened to a temple; it is larger, more solid, and closed off from its surroundings. Light penetrates through a skylight. It should evoke the entrance to another world and allow a person to experience maximum immersion without disturbances from the outside world. The southern building is the opposite of the northern one; it is taller, airier, and completely open to the surrounding landscape, becoming a sort of natural peat chapel. The main idea of this chapel is a connection with nature and transparency. The structure is placed directly on the peat bog, constructed from wooden slats to provide enough privacy while also appearing transparent to the surrounding landscape. From the building, one can step outside onto the surrounding platforms or remain sheltered among the wooden slats. The facades of both buildings are made of charred wood, which aligns with the surrounding colors of the buildings typical for mountain construction.