The extension of the Salinarium leisure pool in Bad Dürkheim, featuring a new thermal spa and sauna facilities, has been named a Winner in the Architecture – Public category at the ICONIC AWARDS 2026. The international architecture and design award is presented by the German Design Council.

We are delighted to receive this award, particularly as it recognises a project in which the transformation and extension of an existing building play a central role. The existing leisure pool was extended with a new thermal spa and sauna facilities while remaining in operation throughout construction. The new spa establishes its own distinct architectural identity, while the redesigned entrance area brings the existing building and the extension together into a unified complex, creating a shared and clearly defined entrance for the Salinarium.

Curved forms and flowing sequences of spaces characterise the new thermal spa. Exposed concrete, timber and ceramic surfaces, combined with a restrained approach to colour and lighting, create a calm and welcoming atmosphere. Externally, the new building makes a distinctive architectural statement with its golden façade, which references Bad Dürkheim's wine-growing heritage.

The Salinarium demonstrates the potential of transforming and extending existing buildings: familiar structures are preserved and enriched with new spatial, functional and atmospheric qualities.

The ICONIC AWARDS, organised by the German Design Council, recognise outstanding achievements in architecture, interior design and product innovation, with a particular focus on transformation and sustainability. The ICONIC AWARDS 2026 ceremony takes place on 6 October 2026 at BMW Welt in Munich.

Discover more about the award-winning project: Salinarium Bad Dürkheim Therme