The University of British Columbia Aquatic Centre illustrates that a natatorium — even one that includes recreational attractions — need not be aesthetically splashy to be beautiful. Judges agreed that the facility’s combination of white walls and natural light places the focus where it belongs: on the water. Stated one panelist, “The building is almost unnoticed as your eye is drawn to the water and activity.”
And there’s plenty of water in this aquatic hall, which makes room for both competitive and leisure amenities under one roof. “Clear and powerful building organization,” noted another judge. “An innovative structural solution that allows natural light into the primary pool areas. The interior is where the project truly sings. Elegant and beautiful.” Yet another likened the “the sculptural quality of natural daylighting and the folded white roof form” to “swimming under a cloud.”
DESIGN ARCHITECT:
MJMA
Toronto, Ont.
ASSOCIATE ARCHITECT:
Acton Ostry Architects
Vancouver, B.C.
COST: $33 million (Canadian)
SQUARE FOOTAGE: 86,000
MAJOR FACILITY COMPONENTS: 10-lane by 51-meter competition pool with 1-meter bulkhead, 25-meter lap pool with 1- and 3-meter springboard diving, leisure pool, hydrotherapy pool, current channel, spray features, hot tub, sauna, steam room, change rooms, spectator galleries
SUPPLIERS: Spectrum Aquatics: Diving Boards, Ladders/Grab Bars
“The use of white throughout allows the water and swimmers to be the color and energy in the space.”
Lynn Reda
“It’s a beautiful example of a simple plan that allows designers to maximize the impact of interior spaces.”
Clint Menefee
"Extraordinarily careful integration of mechanical and electrical systems, and the minimalist, white interior palette allows the blue hue of the pools to be the primary color and the main performer of the natatorium. The restraint of this project creates a white sculptural canvas where the art of swimming is celebrated.”
David Sorg
Credits:
Photos by Ema Peter and Nicole Bell. Video by Sean Ray.