PAM Pool
Aquatic Center
San Francisco, USA
Collaborated with Frederic Lam, Xiaodi Chang, Yaqin Pan
2024
Placid, Aqua, and Melody are the three core characters of the PAM Pool, aiming to create a serene, inviting space with a harmonious integration of timber elements and dynamic light-and-shadow patterns that shift across the walls and water throughout the day. Inspired by traditional single-house typologies and refined iterations, the indoor and outdoor pools are positioned on opposite sides of the building, optimised for proportion. The central, narrower section houses support and service areas, enabling access from either side. The middle section is lowered, while the south side of the indoor pool is elevated, with skylights on the east and south providing natural illumination.
The design combines natural and mechanical ventilation. Pivot windows on the north and east walls facilitate natural airflow, while HVAC vents along the northeast and south walls ensure efficient mechanical ventilation. To control light levels, clear, primed windows on the north and east sides, along with north-facing skylights, allow moderated natural light. These openings also create visual connections, maintaining the space’s tranquillity.