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In the heart of MakĂł, next to the region’s legendary thermal waters, stands the
Hagymatikum spa, a work that embodies Imre Makovecz‘s philosophy of organic
architecture.Â
Designed to engage with local tradition, inspired by MakĂł’s iconic onion, its bulbous layout and domes evoke natural forms that blend into the urban landscape.Â
Begun in 2012, the project underwent a second phase in 2017 and was completed in 2024, allowing every detail of the original design to be preserved, even after the architect’s death. This lengthy and meticulous process has made Hagymatikum a cultural and tourist landmark, blending art, history and wellness.
The roof of the Hagymatikum, covering approximately 8,000 m², posed a major technical challenge. The three-dimensional surfaces, consisting of large domes, small vaults and a large semicircular arch, required materials capable of adapting precisely to varying radio of curvature.Â
To this end, three specific formats of natural slate were selected: 26Ă—21 cm Schuppen tiles for the larger volumes; 24Ă—19 cm Schuppen tiles for the smaller vaults; and 25Ă—25 cm UNI tiles for the large arch.Â
This typological diversity ensured a homogeneous and aesthetic covering, while meeting the demands for durability and flexibility inherent in a building of this nature.
http://www.cupapizarras.com/uk/ contributed its extensive experience in landmark projects, providing a material with controlled flatness and thickness, a useful life of over 100 years, and certifications for resistance to fire, ice, and weathering.Â
The installation was carried out by Teto Horn, the official partner in Hungary, who carried out a handcrafted assembly process: manual classification of each piece according to its size and location, followed by millimetre-precise placement piece by piece.Â
Thanks to this methodology, the slate faithfully follows the organic contours of the building, ensuring perfect visual continuity and optimal weatherproofing.
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The result is a spa whose roof not only provides protection but also accentuates its symbolic value.Â
Natural slate forms an organic covering that respects Makovecz’s vision while providing high technical performance and reduced environmental impact. Thanks to its low COâ‚‚ emissions throughout its life cycle, it stands as a model of sustainability.Â
The Hagymatikum in MakĂł thus stands as an international benchmark where slate demonstrates its versatility, combining tradition and avant-garde to offer a unique architectural experience.
Other case studies
More than 250 roofs are installed per day around the world with our slate.
Natural slate CUPA PIZARRAS has been highly valued by architects and has been selected for important projects within many cultural and historic buildings of interest, modern architecture or the construction or renovation of traditional housing.
Other case studies
More than 250 roofs are installed per day around the world with our slate.
Natural slate CUPA PIZARRAS has been highly valued by architects and has been selected for important projects within many cultural and historic buildings of interest, modern architecture or the construction or renovation of traditional housing.
If you have any questions, our experienced team on slate is at your disposal.
