Studio Jil Bentz

The project is a transformation of a former underground water retention pond located in Schifflange, Luxembourg.

The project was awarded the first prize in the ‘red-rock trail’ lodging competition held as part of Esch-sur-Alzette’s designation as European capital of culture for 2022. The mission was to transform the pond into a tourist shelter for 8 people. The approach was to keep the pond’s original personality and the attitude that governed its construction. Few precise steps were taken to restore the ruins and create a diversity of spaces. The proportionate intervention brought two symmetrical spaces. One is a circular patio and the other a triangular inner space placed within a larger cercle. The former is delineated by a new overground wall that follows the latter’s underground footprint. One challenge was to bring light into the basement. It was addressed by creating an atrium with a small water pond that reflects natural light and recalls the building’s former function. Another challenge was to maintain the space’s narrow integrity while making room for four bedrooms. The response was geometrical, by exploiting the space arising between the existing circle and the new triangle. The staircase is positioned in the middle. It plays a key role by connecting the different building parts together and by ending in an iconic observation tower that connects, in turn, the shelter to the red-rock trail.