This project aims not only to create a new experience for its users but also to maintain the connection with Wilson Park. All of that was achieved by manipulating the voids, intervals, and spaces in between. First, three circulation paths were created to provide access from the streets on the East and the park on the North. Second, clerestory windows and glazing were introduced to provide daylight, which is always site-specific, to all the interiors. Third, the creek was left intact, allowing it to become the extension of the park zone. To achieve that, the programs were separated into two building units: the pool space to the South and the “support spaces” to the North, on the opposite bank. The latter is envisioned to be more subdued in formal and textural expression, while the former is thought to be more vigorous as it employs a sculptural ceiling and skylights. Geometrically they form a surface with spherical carving-outs. Structurally they are based on a coffer-slab system bared on columns. The system is intended to create a captivating play of Southern sunlight across the pool, together with a unique spatial experience. Those voids and the voids in between the two building masses became an integral part of the whole project as they contribute to both its responsiveness to the site and introducing a novel element.
Concept Diagram
The project establishes its connection to the site in three ways: multiple access paths, exposing the existing creek and providing daylight to all the interior spaces.
Site Plan
The natatorium is accessed from Louise Street on the South by a maintenance road, from Park Avenue and Wilson Park Trail on the East by 2 elevated walkways, and from the parking lot or the rest of the park on the North.
Floor Plan
Since the creek runs right across the project site, the programs were separated in two parts: the main pool space on the South, and “support” but by no means less important spaces like locker rooms, entry lobby, multi-purpose space, and café on the opposite bank.
South and North Elevations
The project’s presence is intended to complement the park, that is why gray tones were chosen for the exterior.
East and West Elevations
Though both buildings are done in the same material and color, the pool space is envisioned to be more texturally rough, while the “support” building – more smooth and subtle.
Exterior View from the East
Let us have a brief walkthrough. Now we are looking at the natatorium complex from an existing pedestrian bridge on the East. The two buildings form an open-ended courtyard along the Skull Creek. Next, we will take the elevated walkway on the left.
Exterior View from the projects's "In-between Space" (Open-ended Courtyard)
We find ourselves being in between the two buildings. We can already see into the pool space and feel its influence, however, it is not our primary focus at the moment, as we still have a journey of other spaces laying ahead.
North Entry
But let us imagine a different scenario. Say, we are coming to the natatorium from the parking lot, or we have just had a game of tennis. As we approach the complex from the North, we are welcomed by the “support” building and only catch a little glimpse of what might be happening with the pool space.
View from the Lobby to the Multi-Purpose Space
If we enter right from the North, we find ourselves in the main lobby, able to see through the open multi-purpose space. The cafe is to our left and the locker rooms to the right.
View from the Interior Bridge to the Pool
After we go through the locker rooms, we arrive at the interior bridge connecting the two banks and the two buildings. To our sides, we can see views of the creek and the park. But the sculptural ceiling and the intriguing play of light keeps calling us into the pool space.
The Pool
And then we finally arrive at our destination. Our sight wonders up and down from the ceiling to the water. The play of light and the carved ceiling evoke subconscious reactions. Who knows how many different lighting conditions we can witness in the course of the day and throughout the year.
Exploded Axonometric showing Structure, Envelope and Circulation
And that is how the building comes together. While the support building utilizes the conventional post-and-beam system, the pool space is spanned by a coffer-slab rested on columns.
Site Section (AA) and Reflected Ceiling Plan
Geometrically the ceiling is a surface with spheres subtracted from it, the spheres cutting all the way through create the skylights.
The form derived from the previous work with “material constructs”. Such qualities as porous and rough were studied through designing the void of a rough plaster block. The visual, tactile, light and emotional qualities of that construct became the driving force for the natatorium project. In other studies, light and sectional qualities were investigated as well.
Section Perspective
Manipulating the void was applied in a direct way of geometrical subtraction, in imitating the void with transparent glazing, and also in allowing the space to be freed of any form to open up the creek and keep the landscape intact. New experiences were tried to be build up on the existing conditions, paying credit to the project's location within the park.
