Aquaticum Water Park

One of the key objectives of Debrecen’s long-term development program is to transform Nagyerdő, the city’s central park, into a true recreational hub. Several elements of the program have already been revitalized, including the Nagyerdei Stadium, the area around Békás Lake, the Nagyerdei Open-Air Theater, the Nagyerdei Water Tower, and the Mist Theater. One of the final pieces of this development plan was the revitalization of the water park. The city envisioned a landmark that would clearly connect Debrecen and Nagyerdő, offering a unique water-themed experience in harmony with its natural surroundings.

Enveloped by trees like a clearing in the forest, we envisioned an oasis of life and water. At its heart, we designed a striking sculptural element—one that transforms water and the lush green forest surroundings into a new dimension, highlighting the natural beauty of the forest.

The entrance building of the water park is located along the newly revitalized Nagyerdei Promenade. It is positioned along the pedestrian street, houses the main entrance, changing rooms, restrooms, and a food court. The restaurants not only serve visitors of the bath but also face the promenade, creating a lively social hub within the park. The long, flat volume of the building is covered by a green roof that gently slopes to the beach side, resembling a rolling wave of greenery.

Approaching from the entrance, the first thing visitors see is the water park’s central visual feature: a 196m x 26m framework standing 12 meters tall. This architectural element serves as a unifying structure that frames various attractions, including a diving pool, adventure pool with slides, a water cave, swimming pool, thermal baths, relaxation zones, sun terraces and bars. Winding walls covered in water and lush vegetation create a fluid transition between these areas, while the sun terrace offers a completely new perspective of the city park.