Wedged on an urban site between a state highway exit ramp and a high school, this 1950s-era pool and bathhouse offered little space for softscaping. However, the site plan did allow for a connection to the playing fields and lawn areas to the north, and colored and textured blocks combine with brick to connect with the exterior aesthetic of the adjacent high school. The west side of the building features deep roof overhangs for shade.
A single main entrance is located at the drop-off area. Access to the toddler pool is directly off the main lobby, whereas access to the main pool is through the changing areas and shower rooms. The manager’s office is located to provide access to both pools and the lobby.
Since this facility does not allow diving, deep water was limited to five feet, allowing more project money to be allocated to the overall pool area. The pool is zoned into areas for different age groups. A peninsula helps to demarcate these areas and provides a good vantage point for lifeguards. Although the beach entry areas could have easily supported infant users, the operator wanted to provide a separate pool for toddlers. A fence with an integrated shade structure provides separation between the pools.
Chapman University
