Architect : Bargmann Hendrie + Archetype Inc.
Total Construction Cost : $12M
Square Feet : 5,200 (bathhouse), 21,000 (pool/pool deck area), 60,000 (total site)
Project Description:
The pool at Forest River has had a long, remarkable history in the City of Salem, Mass., having been operational in various forms for more than 100 years and providing generations of families and residents with recreation, exercise and relaxation opportunities. However, by 2017, the pool had reached the end of its lifespan, and its bathhouse building was exhibiting signs of deterioration. After consultation with the Salem Historical Commission and Historic Salem, the design team decided to restore the bathhouse to serve two newly designed and constructed pools.
This project successfully combines historic preservation objectives with important community goals for net-zero considerations, accessibility, environmental education and public art. It addresses climate-resiliency concerns, especially important after a 2018 storm had flooded and destroyed the pool’s filtration system. Designers raised the elevation of the new pools and moved them back from the shoreline. A new planted tidal area creates a salt marsh buffer against future storms. Solar panels were added to the building’s flat roof to make the bathhouse a net-zero energy facility, aligning with the city’s 100 percent clean energy resolution. In addition, a new spray deck provides opportunities for cooling in the hot weather outside of pool season.
Today, the project provides a fully accessible public space that serves as a focus for outdoor recreation and environmental education programming. The city honors the history of the site through interpretive panels in the bathhouse. Morever, interpretive signage has been assembled throughout the park to allow visitors to learn more about its history and surrounding ecosystem.
