The POP-UPOOL project is set in the Parco Archeologico area of Milan, a location rich in history as it was once part of the Navigli Canal. The design combines a swimming pool with urban life, creating a space where residents and visitors can engage in recreational activities. By introducing this facility into public streets, the project aims to promote interaction and enjoyment in an often-overlooked urban environment.

Design Concept

The swimming pool measures 82 meters in length and 10 meters in width. Its depth varies, allowing for different swimming capabilities. High-strength clear glass forms the pool's walls, offering unobstructed views both from inside and outside. This transparency brings light into the space and connects the water with the lively atmosphere of the surrounding city. The visual link encourages curiosity and spontaneous encounters, making it a focal point in the area.

Access and Interaction

Horizontal entry points are positioned on both sides of the pool, which differs from the more common vertical access found in traditional swimming pools. This design change makes it easier for people to enter and exit the water. Each entry features a "lock-out chamber," a nod to the canal locks that once defined the landscape. This detail connects users with the history of the area and encourages a unique interaction with the facility.

Historical Context

The presence of the swimming pool in a historically significant area adds a layer of meaning to the design. The Navigli Canal was once an important route for transport, while the new facility emphasizes water as a source of recreation and social gathering. This relationship between past use and present function allows the design to celebrate the history of the site while fulfilling modern needs for leisure and community spaces.

As people gather around the POP-UPOOL, the clear walls not only allow for visibility into the water but also reflect the activity of those swimming. This creates a lively environment that integrates nature and urban life, bringing vibrancy and a sense of belonging to the area.