The swimming pool is located in the Zuiderpark in Zutphen and placed on a plinth, following the existing landscape. The plinth accommodates an artificial landscape including the south-facing slopes, a bicycle storage and a monumental exterior stairway. The differentiations in height, plantation and pavement are enclosed by a hedge of beech, naturally embedding the complex into the Zuiderpark. Furthermore, due to the high plinth, the pools are all located above groundwater making construction more efficient.
The building volume itself is divided into a transparent base with a solid roof volume on top. A large roof overhang is creating a inviting entrance zone. The pools are organized in a clear sequence (25m competition pool, instruction pool and recreation pool for kids) separated by glass walls. Along the longitudinal side, a transparent accommodation area links the pools and creates a strong relationship between the indoor functions and the surrounding park. In the heart of the building there is a patio, allowing daylight to penetrate deep into the volume while it also functions as a rainwater collector. This restful water garden is a focus point for visitors and users of the pool areas.
For the interior a neutral materialisation was chosen, composed of different shades of grey and anthracite, in combination with a wooden ceiling. This pallet results in a timeless, high-quality finishing of the interior. The ceiling can be seen from the outside of the building and follows the kinked roof, leading the view to the heart of the complex, the patio with water garden. Fresh color- accents and signage lead visitors through the complex in a natural way.
View Original