COSPICUA
The Olympic-sized indoor swimming pool forming part of the Cottonera Sports Complex is the first of its kind in the Maltese Islands. The site covers an area of approximately 4200 square metres, housing the competition pool, spectator stands for some 400 visitors, changing rooms, pump room and other ancillaries. The project also brings about a feat in structural engineering, merging the use of Glulam Timber for the roof, structural steel forming the inclined columns and curtain walls to the main facades, and last, but not least, the Olympic-sized pool comprising of a movable floor and movable bulkhead to allow for ultimate versatility in the pool’s use.
The large-span roof is composed of fifteen glulam timber curved beams spanning a length of 45m and with a height of 1.90m. The timber beams are in-turn supported onto a series of reinforced concrete columns. Glulam timber panels are supported onto the timber beams, which not only serve to transmit the roof loads to the main structure but also provide the building with the required lateral bracing, thus avoid secondary elements to serve this purpose. The timber structure enhances the internal space creating a soft and natural look contrasting to the surrounding bold exposed concrete surfaces. Overlying the timber structure, the Elysium metal roofing system is adopted achieving the required insulation and water-tightness of the entire structure. The roofing package consists of a vapor barrier made with a bituminous waterproofing membrane, two layers of thermal insulation installed between the battens and counter-battens necessary to support the sheet metal finish.
The FINA certified Olympic-sized pool is constructed in materials of the highest quality and comprises of stainless-steel vertical panels and buttresses forming the retaining perimeter walls. The modular system not only ensures speedy construction, but also reduces environmental impact, ensures durability and maximum performance. The pool also comprises of an artistic swimming pit and movable floor allowing flexibility to the pool’s height. A movable bulkhead is also installed thus allowing for the sub-division of the pool and variations to its overall length.
The eaves of the complex are supported by a steel structure with beams supported by the periphery Glulam timber structure. The sides of the complex are in turn supported onto a series of steel inclined columns. A triple glazed curtain wall system encloses the space on either side allowing natural diffused light to enter the pool area.
JLZ+MBF Architect’s role was that of the Project Architects and Structural Engineers for the works contractor, co-ordinating and managing the various experts in the relevant fields during the entire construction phase. The team’s role also included the successful integration of the main structural elements, architectural features and complex filtration and MEP systems for the entire project.
JLZ + MBF Architects Roles:
Coordinating Architects
Structural Engineers
Main Contractor: V & C Group Ltd.
Sub-Contractors: Myrtha Pools, Rubner Group, Elysium Srl
Site Area = 4150 square meter
