Wunnebad in Winnenden is a modern swimming and wellness center that unites architecture and lighting at the highest level. The lighting approach combines sporting functionality with atmospheric staging. Behnisch Architekten of Stuttgart designed an open, clearly structured building that includes both indoor and outdoor pools as well as a generous sauna landscape. PBS Ingenieurgesellschaft in Aalen was responsible for electrical and lighting design. The aim was to develop a lighting concept that delivers safety, orientation and an engaging visitor experience in equal measure. All the while, it was challenging to balance high visual comfort for training and competitions, a glare-free atmosphere for wellness zones and sustainable, low-maintenance technology. Architectural highlights such as the self-supporting dome called for customized lighting solutions.
Interior areas – clear structure and well-being
Different luminaire types are used indoors, each precisely matched to its application. The foyer is illuminated with Quintessence recessed luminaires whose elegant form and directional light provide guidance and a representative atmosphere. Changing rooms and ancillary areas are lit by Skim recessed luminaires and a combination of track with Parscan 6W; the spotlights provide functional, glare-free illumination. In the changing rooms in particular, the spotlights were installed with tamper-resistant fixings to ensure security and durability.
The sauna suite and adjoining relaxation rooms benefit from Iku wallwashers, which deliver gentle, near-wall illumination and a relaxed, glare-free atmosphere. The water surfaces in the pool are accentuated by Lightscan outdoor luminaires, while Quintessence outdoor recessed luminaires light the circulation along the pool edges. Precisely positioned accents emphasize the architecture and ensure safety without over-lighting. A particular feature is the targeted lighting around the large self-supporting dome, where directional illumination highlights the pool.
Outdoor areas – orientation and atmospheric accents
The exterior lighting of Wunnebad follows the same principles: ERCO recessed luminaires in the foyer canopy create continuity between inside and out with a consistent luminaire typology using Quintessence. A mix of Tesis, Castor and Kona outdoor luminaires provides a pleasant, sustainable lighting mood for the gardens and sauna landscape. Notably, the selection prioritizes insect-friendly lighting tools with a low blue-light component.
Color concept and materiality
A key design element is the coordination of luminaire finishes with the overall scheme. Special RAL colors echo sockets, clocks and other details, integrating the light harmoniously into the architecture. Using the same luminaire type in front of the foyer as indoors creates a seamless transition between interior and exterior.
Sustainability and cost-effectiveness
The luminaires were chosen with long service life in mind. ERCO luminaires are developed for a service life of 20 years, providing strong investment security. Despite economic and political challenges during realization, ERCO’s reliable pricing enabled adherence to the lighting budget without compromising quality. The concept is notably efficient: A low number of luminaires deliver a great deal of light, minimizing energy consumption and maintenance effort.
Robustness, precision and durability
ERCO luminaires are engineered for the demanding conditions of public swimming pools. With protection ratings up to at least IP65, they are dust-tight and protected against jets of water from all directions. Robust cast-aluminum housings, a no-rinse surface treatment and double powder coating ensure long-lasting corrosion protection, even in chlorinated or saline air. Internal cable routing and high-quality seals further increase service life and maintenance reliability.
For sports use, the lighting tools provide precise, glare-free illumination: high brightness for water polo, differentiated distributions for competitive swimming and clear sightlines for coaches and lifeguards. Flicker-free, camera-ready operation with a dimming range up to ≤1% ensures consistently pleasant light quality – for both competitions and atmospheric wellness areas.
The lighting design at Wunnebad Winnenden combines technical precision, design elegance and user focus. Through the targeted selection of luminaire types, careful coordination with color and material concepts and intelligent placement, it creates an environment that optimally supports sport, relaxation and experience. Wunnebad sets a benchmark for the interplay of architecture and light, demonstrating how thoughtful lighting design can harmonies atmosphere, functionality and sustainability.