[ t h e s i s ] b o o k  

 

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN [SIX]

 

 

 

[URBAN SWIMMING] THE DESIGN OF A PUBLIC SWIMMING POOL FOR PRETORIA CENTRAL

 

[2014] The aim of the thesis is to design a public swimming pool that re-connects street and river within a particular urban condition. The ground plane of the selected site is manipulated to facilitate a physical and visual connection with the river. Wetlands form part of the landscape surrounding the facility and on urban scale to assist in the cleaning and re-use of water from the canal.

 

The proposal includes two pools accommodating different human interactions with water. The pool lanes serve as form generator and the subsequent design employing repetition and rhythm extensively. The transitions between wet and dry, land and water were explored extensively during the design process.

 

The built form mostly serves a supporting function to the water bodies. The buildings are designed as a transitional space between inside and outside. The site was carefully selected based on the mix of current educational facilities, offices and residential accommodation.

 

The site was developed using various layers namely: Private swimming, public swimming, spill out spaces, as well as spectator and passer-by contact. The transition from wet to dry influences the barrier between land and water.

 

It is envisioned that the proposal will form part of the larger Tshwane 2055 framework aiming to revitalise the Pretoria CBD, although canalised, the Aapies River forms an important life giving artery adjacent to the Nelson Mandela Corridor. As part of the design proposal it is envisioned that the canal be used as a floating walkway in future with follies linking specific sites and the river at strategic points.

 

The proposed lap pool adheres to international standards. Both the pools step towards the canal, providing a different spatial and sensory experience. The design may serve as a guideline for future proposals along the canal. URBAN SWIMMING must inspire social growth and promote swimming as both a sport and a recreational activity.