Feature image for Designing The Competitive Pool

Designing The Competitive Pool

Successful competition pools unite profile, circulation, lighting, materials, and clear sightlines to create fast water and an exceptional athlete experience.

5 min read

Photo Credit: Wallover Architects Incorporated

A competitive swimmer is a unique athlete. Endless hours of training and study of the mechanics of the sport, while being exposed to an environment that is basically foreign to normal day-to-day human activities, is his or her life. The culmination of the work and dedication takes place in a unique and highly specialized arena—the competitive pool. Properly designing this special type of venue is of critical importance for the design community.

Four main areas of focus, when properly combined, create an environment that will enhance a swimmer’s ability to perform at his or her highest level.

- Pool profile