THE ROYAL DOCKS NATATORIUM
by Manvin Grover
The Natatorium is a series of indoor and outdoor pools that sit on the Royal Docks and serve as a means of connection between the users of the site and the dock water. Alongside enhancing the communal connection on site, the project focusses on reducing the use of energy by utilising the wasted energy from the surroundings for heating pools and spaces. The 3D printed clay envelope of the building allows opportunities for managing the permeability in different areas and at different heights to let the correct amount of heat transfer into the space. The form and performance is determined by the micro-climatic conditions, For example, the curved façade help reduce wind disturbance and the 2-way slanted roof collects rainwater and solar energy (slanted to face South). The programmatic arrangement is influenced by the needs of the users.
