One thing many people don’t typically think about when they visit a city is to enjoy some swimming. However, public pools are a really vital part of these urban areas. We want to have a closer look at this today, exploring the historical significance and value they can offer today. Then, if you need help from an architect in London to create different types of spaces, you can rely on us.
History
The foundation of human society is groups of people live together to support and help each other. This makes life more comfortable and enjoyable for everyone. Settlements evolved with this in mind.
Bathing and swimming have a unique place in society. They are essential for health and hygiene, and also have fantastic social value. They become even more important as cities grow too.
Traditionally, you would find public pools and baths in various urban areas. The oldest ones are in Pakistan, dating from 5,000 years ago. They became most popular during the Roman Empire. Here they served as vital pieces of infrastructure for public health as well as places for socialising, allowing people from different classes to come together on more equal terms. At the height, Rome had 11 massive thermae and well over 900 balneae (smaller baths). With over a million people living in the city, the estimate was 60,000 could bathe simultaneously.
Perhaps even more importantly, the Romans made massive improvements in architecture and infrastructure to support the baths and pools. This included aqueducts and vaulted ceilings. The buildings were often some of the grandest in the empire, including marble masterpieces like the Baths of Caracalla. As a top architect in London, we can appreciate the stunning designs and workmanship.
The idea of public baths persisted in various parts of the world, especially Islamic countries. However, it was lost in many places across Europe because of the lack of infrastructure. Luckily, there was a huge improvement in this following the industrial revolution. They became especially popular in Britain in the 19th century. This then encouraged other countries to follow, including Germany and the US. They were particularly important in busy American cities in the 20th century.
Today
More recently, we’ve seen work in many cities all around the world to create more public pools. This includes in London, Paris, Brussels and more. An independent organisation from the Belgian capital spent years advocating for them, successfully seeing the first new one opened in forty plus years in 2021.
The idea of introducing more pools is the same as always, to improve health and wellbeing. In addition, it encourages people to take some time out and enjoy respite in a busy setting. It can really enhance the urban experience. Plus, it is a great way to build a stronger community.
Do you want some help from a top architect in London?
Coffey Architects appreciates all the various things that make urban areas better, from parks to public pools. It is fantastic to see more people doing the same and looking to improve life in cities and other densely populated locations.
If you need some help with a project, you can rely on us and work with an award winning architect in London. Browse our website or contact us to learn more.