Bathing pools project shortlisted for architecture award
The Vallette Bathing Pools project has been shortlisted as one of the best designed buildings in the south-east.
There are 16 projects shortlisted for the RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) South East Awards.
All projects shortlisted for RIBA Regional Awards will be visited by a regional jury, and the winning projects will be announced later this spring.
The news has been welcomed at the Bathing Pools.
'We are excited and honoured that the Bathing Pools has been shortlisted in the prestigious RIBA Awards 2024. It has been fantastic to experience the positive social impact the project has had on our community and now for it to be recognised alongside the best architecture in the UK,' said David De La Mare, managing director of DLM Architects.
David Warr, chairman of Vive La Vallette LBG, added: ‘When we commissioned DLM Architects to design the new facilities at La Vallette the brief was to design a building that would stand the test of time, maximise the potential of the site and provide a welcoming accessible space for all.
'David and his team have achieved all of the above and more and the feedback from customers has been overwhelmingly positive.
'Guernsey now has a world class facility to compliment the outdoor swimming facilities of which all involved can be proud.’
The bathing pools date back to the mid-19th century but were revamped from 2019, when the not-for-profit group Vive La Vallette was selected as preferred bidder to redevelop the area. It opened in 2022.
RIBA has highlighted the use of undulating timber waves to soften the interior both visually and acoustically, and connect the space to the rolling seas beyond.
The overall design of the building was created around tiers to reflect the staged topography of the pools.
The project is up against a range of schemes, including a timber-framed family home in the North Downs, a courtyard house in Haslemere, a new concert hall and music school at Benenden School, Kent, and a visitor centre site with three holiday cottages and camping barn at Seven Sisters Country Park.
RIBA South East jury chairman Chris Williamson said the quality of the all entries was high.
‘Whether it was residential, mixed-used, culture or leisure facilities, they provide a fantastic snapshot of what’s possible with vision and collaboration,’ he said.
‘The projects sensitivity to their surroundings and users’ needs must also be commended.
'I think I can speak for all of the judging panel in saying how excited and privileged we are to undertake these visits.’
