A competition entry for the adaptive reuse of the Seaholm Intake Building, the centerpiece of Cenote Baths is a 25 foot waterfall, inspired by the geology of Central Texas. Caused by the collapse of limestone bedrock, a cenote is an opening to the water of the underground aquifer. Like its namesake, Cenote Baths illuminates the vital importance of water in our city.
The visitor enters to a quiet, contemplative reflecting pool on the ground floor and traverses a long stair into the heart of the waterfall. Within the cacophony of falling water, the base of the cenote serves as a playable sculpture and the gateway to the lake level pool. A series of nine baths line the pool. Each one explores the interaction of water and light in a series of uncommon sensory experiences.
A one of a kind gathering place, Cenote Baths has the unique opportunity to be one of Austin’s greatest amenities along with Barton Springs, The Greenbelt and Hamilton Pool.