juice architects spirals tidal lagoon at swansea bay

juice architects spirals tidal lagoon at swansea bay
all images courtesy of juice architects

an offshore visitor center that provides educational, cultural and leisure facilities is to be constructed along the welsh coast, UK. designed by london-based juice architects, ‘tidal lagoon swansea bay’ is an energy generating facility, providing clean, renewable and reliable power for over 120,000 homes. the robust and elegant design stands as a landmark structure, serving as a beacon for the region and its people. the scheme will create new jobs, acting as a catalyst for future investment and development. positioned at the end of the lagoon’s seawall, access is provided by foot, cycle and electric bus. the site will include public galleries, a café, lecture theater, educational rooms and exhibition space.

expansive glazing offers views across the bay

referencing the region’s fishing heritage, the architecture echoes the natural form of an oyster. rather than being a singular object, the concept comprises a series of overlapping sculpted shells. the outer wall is finished in a highly textured concrete and providing shelter from the wind and waves. tall windows offer expansive views across the bay, while curved reflective internal walls contrast the outer surfaces. guests will be permitted to access the turbine hall as part of the overall experience, while the propellers will be visible through a glass panel from the ground floor gallery.

curved internal walls contrast the rough outer surfaces, reflecting daylight

the balance between the overall scale, floor area and visual impression of the building has been considered carefully. the ground floor is determined by the level of the sea water, which also protects against potential storm surges. three-storeys emerge above the plinth, while the lower space is a double-height volume with a mezzanine level housing a lecture theater and the educational facilities. areas of the roof are designed to provide a natural ecological base for wildlife to inhabit, while simultaneously forming an garden for guests. the building will be self-sufficient with all power required being captured via renewable sources, including solar panels positioned integrated within the roof. rain water will be harvested and recycled with specialized fittings aimed to reduce consumption.

‘the tidal lagoon at swansea bay’ is scheduled to open in 2018.

looking upwards from the basement level

‘the design and materials are deliberately tactile – the rugged outer-shells contrast dramatically with the interior which will be a place of wonder with natural light being reflected off the pearlescent curved walls creating a stimulating environment for visitors to enjoy the educational, cultural and leisure activities the center offers. we are proud to be part of this project team and to create a building that will be self-sustainable and a part of the world’s first tidal lagoon’, explained paul newman of juice architects.

‘the design of the off-shore building incorporates an exciting and elegant interior with adaptable space to support changing exhibits and events, while creating a unique and memorable place for local people and visitors alike. juice architects have designed a building that is intrinsically linked to the lagoon, the turbine housing and sustainable energy generation, reflecting local history and the opportunities that will be created for mari-culture and leisure’, stated alex herbert, head of planning for tidal lagoon power.

internal circulation routes

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