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After the Rain Spa
A subterranean city of light, water, and historic architecture"The architecture of the After the Rain spa embraces the unique spatial qualities of the historic underground cellars, blending raw brickwork with new layers of design, creating a harmonious dialogue between past and present in a secluded, immersive world."
Dietmar Leyk, principal and founder
The After the Rain spa for Pfefferberg in Berlin is located within the historic underground cellars of the former Pfeffer brewery. This unique setting, both as a location in Prenzlauer Berg - one of Berlin’s most sought-after districts - and in close proximity to the Aedes Architecture Forum, and Olafur Eliasson’s studio, endows the spa with a distinctive character.
Visitors descend into this ‘underworld’ via a spiral staircase, entering a subterranean city composed of various architectural scenes. The spa consists of a sequence of intimate, discreet spaces. A trajectory of black exposed concrete and water-filled glass elements leads through the building, connecting the forum with all areas of the spa. This path offers orientation and allows for both lyrical and efficient movement through the spaces.
The existing rooms retain their impressive dimensions wherever possible, while connections are created where spatial continuity is necessary for the intended use. The central feature of the spa is the ‘Grande Halle’, where three previously separated rooms are merged into a generous water-filled hall, offering visitors the sensation of being alone in a secluded world. The concept of cladding existing structures is experienced as a continuous design principle throughout.
The spatial quality of the vaults and the continuous transition from wall to ceiling is emphasised either by the treated brickwork or through a new layer of space. This approach incorporates a rich variety of depth effects. In the meditation room, restaurant, or smaller baths, suspended room dividers and the light sources behind them create an impression of expanded space.
Client: after the rain, Geneva, Switzerland