The Bathing Pools

Reimagining an iconic part of Guernsey life as a community hub with an innate connection to nature. In 2019, a not-for-profit charitable trust was founded and presented proposals for the redevelopment of the facilities at La Valette Bathing Pools ‘to create a vibrant and accessible destination for the community to enjoy’. The States of Guernsey committed some of the capital and the Guernsey community raised the rest, through corporate sponsorship, grants and private donations. We developed a concept in response to the site’s topography and exposure to extreme weather, situating the building in the rocky outcrop and introduced a formal and linear elevation to the pools. The existing building was stripped back, retaining the lower-level footprint and reconfiguring it to offer modern changing facilities, linked by a covered shower area that remains available when the building is closed. The adjacent granite boardwalk was raised to give level access and the inclusion of a ramp into the pools, along with other alterations to the site and building, makes all areas completely accessible. Above the changing rooms spans an exposed concrete structure accommodating a community café - a space of quiet and calm, protected from the elements. The undulating timber waves soften the interior both visually and acoustically whilst connecting the space to the rolling seas beyond. The south pavilion offers external seating – designed by us and built by the Guernsey Prison – served by a kiosk direct from the kitchen. The newly formed upper part of the site holds a lightweight glazed pavilion, with landscaped terracing for events and community activities. Materials and structure were specified to offer robustness and rational simplification of the existing building, detailed to provide texture and rhythm within a constantly changing landscape. 100% recycled plastic battens were used to clad the changing rooms - each board engraved with the names of those that provided their skills and sponsorship, a subtle yet enduring thank you to all who contributed and a reflection of a true community project that we were proud to play a part in. “Successfully integrating architecture with nature, the design makes a positive impact on both the community and the environment." Judging panel of the 2024 RIBA South East Awards