Sligo Gaol, a prison transformed into a minimalist modern hotel, with a subterranean thermal bath inspired by the Roman Baths and Turkish Hammams, is constructed with inverted vaults. A minimalist pared back and monochromatic brutal architectural style blends with the environment allowing the public to experience life in a prison and as a prisoner, yet feel relaxed, calm and comfortable. It’s varied and carefully articulated areas create a peaceful and meditative experience, with orderly and free-flowing space. I tried to underpin the experiences through layering of geometry, historical understanding, space,temperature, materiality and sound. This becomes apparent through a choreographed transition of space in which light, sound, temperature, humidity, textures and raw materials create an immersive sensory experience. The overall interior and materiality are inspired by Brutalist architecture to convey the feelings of the prisoners being confined in the dull and silent space. The prison is converted into a hotel which acts as meditating and healing space, relieving the spirit of the “prisoners”; therefore, thermal baths and spas are chosen as a means to soothe the minds of visitors. The inverted arched-columns stand tall and bold in the hotel, connecting the basement to the roof and creating a vaulted ceiling. They also lead the public through the transition of the enormous space with striking effect. Alterations to the exterior wall and roof allow sunlight into the enclosed space, which is surrounded by high walls, allowing the public to experience both warmth and cold inside.
