thames baths project targets planning permission after kickstarter funding

thames baths project targets planning permission after kickstarter funding
image © studio octopi & picture plane

an ambitious project to bring public outdoor swimming to central london has moved a step closer, after the scheme reached its funding goal on crowdfunding platform kickstarter. after original plans for the floating lido were revealed by architects studio octopi last year, the design has been developed further and responds to feedback on previous versions located along the victoria embankment at blackfriars bridge and temple stairs. the funding will allow the project to seek planning permission.

the new proposal integrates the changing rooms and kiosks within the floating pontoon, offering a self-sufficient lido that could be located in any urban waterway where there is a minimum of two meters of water. this addition creates increased opportunities to landscape the surface of the pontoon with more intimate seating areas closer to the water, as well as higher look outs and vantage points.

the project is fed by natural filtered river water
image © studio octopi & picture plane

the project is fed by natural filtered river water, which is taken from the thames and passed around the reed beds and a below deck filter before filling the pools. this water meets the highest german bathing water standards all without the use of chemicals. to ensure the longest swimming season as possible, thames baths will be gently warmed via a heat exchanger and remain open throughout the year.

see here for designboom’s previous coverage of the project.

designboom has received this project through its ‘DIY submissions’ feature, which welcomes readers to submit their own work for publication. see more designboom readers submissions here.

edited by: philip stevens | designboom