MVRDV and Zecc Architecten have won a competition to transform the vacant St. Francis of Assisi Church in Heerlen, Netherlands, into a public swimming pool. The design, called “Holy Water,” preserves the church’s historical features while giving it a new social function.
Design and Features
The swimming pool will be located in the church’s nave, with an adjustable floor that can be lowered or raised to change the pool depth. The existing pews will be repurposed as seating behind glass walls surrounding the pool. Historic artworks will be concealed behind glass walls for safekeeping. A new mosaic floor will border the pool, echoing the church’s existing colors and materials.
Innovative Elements
– Adjustable Pool Floor: Allows for varying pool depths and creates a “walking on water” effect.
– Glass Walls: Enclose the pool area, protecting historic artworks from humidity and providing a unique visual effect.
– Illuminated Canopy: Marks the main entrance, resembling a halo.
– Repurposed Pews: Used as seating and bars overlooking the pool.
Winy Maas, MVRDV cofounder, said, “The vacancy rate of churches is increasing, so we need to come up with new, creative ideas for what we can do with these buildings… A public swimming pool is ideally suited for this.”
The pool is expected to open in late 2027.
Image Courtesy: archpaper.com
