The Jean Varraud Thermal Baths are located in Bagni di Lucca, a historic Tuscan spa town known for centuries for the beneficial properties of its waters.
The facility is part of the thermal complex that also includes Casa Boccella and features natural steam caves, directly fed by the thermal springs.
It is a place deeply connected to the region's heritage and the tradition of thermalism, where history, water, and wellness converge in a setting of significant cultural and scenic value.
The Client’s requirement was to intervene on the Jean Varraud Thermal Baths’ caves while respecting their historical value and strong spatial identity. The restoration aimed to preserve the legibility of the spaces, maintaining the characteristic elements that were not compromised by time.
The caves, spanning an area of 400 square meters, are configured as two grottoes carved into the rock. The larger one features a spacious, vaulted chamber that progressively narrows until it reaches the source of the thermal water, from which steam naturally generates, saturating the air.
The more intimate cave overlooks a small internal pool of thermal water and was Pauline Bonaparte’s favorite spot, so much so that today it is known as the “Grotta Paolina” (Pauline’s Grotto).
The intervention by Studio Silvia Giannini Architects involved the renovation of materials and lighting, through stylistic choices consistent with the structure’s historical tradition.
- Concept design
- Preliminary Design
- Final Design
- Detailed Design
- Artistic Direction
- Custom FF&E Design
- Furniture Design
- Interior Design
- Light Design
- Design of Equipment and Technologies for Wellness
- Project Management
