Thames Pool Renovation
London, Ont.
Year in Showcase: 2012
Project Description
Opened in 1927, the outdoor pool in Thames Park represents one of the City of London's oldest aquatics venues. In 2007, a revitalization effort was launched to broaden the facility's appeal and offerings. Visitors to the renovated changing facilities are now greeted by a control desk with a view of the pool experience that awaits them. This simple alteration radically transformed the entry sequence and greatly improved one's first impression of the new pool facility.
Materials are durable and weather-resistant to withstand the winter shutdown period. Beyond the welcome point, interior upgrades were limited to renovating the bathhouse to allow for barrier-free accessibility and to improve the longevity of the locker room surfaces. Key aquatic components include a beach-entry pool to the north, a lap pool with diving area to the south, and a brightly colored landmark slide to the west. The simple design suits the small site, while respecting the axis of the bathhouse.
The curved beach entry leads users into picnic and slide areas, and a radial shade structure acts as a focal point, allowing parents to congregate and watch in comfort. Park features extend into the pool deck area with the addition of trees and benches in the picnic area, which is shaded by three large umbrellas.
Project Details
Architect of Record: Perkins+Will; Toronto, Ont.
Area: 22 acres
Construction Cost: $4.5 million (Canadian)
Occupancy: June 2010
Vendors
Access Ramps/Stairs:
S.R. Smith
Chemical Control Systems: Siemens Water Technologies
Diving Boards: Spectrum Aquatics
Filtration Systems: Neptune-Benson Inc.
Water Play Features: Empex Watertoys
