ZWEMBAD DE WATERTUIN
PROJECT
Slangen + Koenis Architecten
ROLE
Architect
PHASES
Concept to completion
ASSIGNMENT
Integrated Design
YEAR
2020-2022
Concept
While working as an architect at Slangen + Koenis Architecten, I have worked on the design of the new indoor swimming pool in Rucphen. It is a pavilion like building situated on a beautiful lawn surrounded by large trees. The goal was to create a building that would blend and connect with its natural surroundings.
Vision
Despite its simple rectangular shape, the design plays with varying depths and heights and sizes of the glazing, offering the users different insights of the surroundings as they move through the space. This engages the public and emphasizes the relationship between inside and outside.
The building is located where the old outdoor pool once stood. To preserve this connection, we designed two long openable glass facades that enhance the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing the swimming pool, sunbathing area, and outdoor spray park to function as a cohesive whole.
Optimal approach to programme
The building's program is quite simple. It consists of three main zones: an entrance area with a reception desk, a sitting area, and a group of toilets; a dressing area with several group changing cabins; and a shower area with toilets, located before entering the 25-meter pool with six lanes and a movable floor.
The building’s transparent façade highlights its function, making it easily recognizable to the public. Upon entering, this is reinforced by a spacious reception area, where visitors are greeted by the reception desk and can immediately see the swimming pool through indoor glass panels.
From the entrance hall, there is a direct view of the changing facilities. This not only promotes social oversight but also ensures that visitors quickly understand where they need to go. The design of the changing area extends this clarity throughout the building, making it easy to navigate for both users and operators.
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Some thoughts on the Design Process
While the terminology may not be as common in architecture, the design process aligns closely with the general principles of the Double Diamond framework.
Discover/Research
In the discovery phase, we immerse ourselves in the project’s requirements. This phase often involves asking clarifying questions to understand the hierarchy of priorities and ensure a clear definition of the problem.
Define/Synthesis
With insights gathered during discovery, we move on to defining the challenge and crafting our strategic approach.
Develop/Ideation
This phase is all about exploring solutions. We gather references and create multiple design options that address the program's demands. It’s a diverging phase, where ideas are tested and refined with input from both the team and the client.
Deliver
Finally, we present the best options to the client for feedback. Based on their input, we iterate and refine the design before finalizing the solution for delivery.
On a macro scale, once a building is constructed, iterating becomes much more challenging. That’s why we invest heavily in the Ideation phase, ensuring thorough back-and-forth collaboration with all stakeholders to arrive at the best possible solution.