A Space for Movement
The new multipurpose pool in Chemnitz-Bernsdorf has created a space that is much more than a traditional swimming pool. The new building combines athletic functionality with an open, inviting atmosphere, creating a public space that naturally integrates physical activity, social interaction, and a pleasant environment for spending time. Designed by Code Unique Architects from Dresden, the new facility replaces the aging existing pool and reimagines the Bernsdorf swimming complex as a contemporary space for daily life, training, and leisure.
Light, Openness, and Clear Spaces
Upon entering, a spacious, open-plan entrance area immediately shapes one’s perception of the building. Daylight floods deep into the hall; visual connections provide orientation and lend the spaces a pleasant sense of calm. The architecture focuses not on spectacle, but on clarity and intuitiveness. Light-colored materials, inviting surfaces, and flowing Übergänge between the areas create an atmosphereäre that is both functional and relaxing. The shower area takes on a refreshing vibrancy thanks to the glaze of the light blue large-format mosaic.
The water area takes center stage: The 25-meter pool forms the athletic heart of the facility, complemented by a teaching pool, a diving pool, and a children’s area. Different uses naturally intertwine—from focused training to casual recreation. At the same time, the spatial structure allows individual areas to be flexibly separated from one another without losing the openness of the overall space.
Architecture for Everyone
The quality of the new building is particularly evident in its approach to accessibility and everyday life. Accessibility here is not a supplementary feature, but an integral part of the design. Spacious circulation areas, a tactile guidance system for the visually impaired, accessible changing rooms, and technical aids such as a pool lift create an environment that is equally accessible to all users. This self-evident approach characterizes the entire facility: pathways are intuitive, spaces feel calm and uncluttered, and the atmosphere remains pleasant and controlled even during peak usage.
Sustainability as Part of the Concept
From a technical standpoint, too, the building is designed as future-proof infrastructure. Modern ventilation and water treatment systems, heat recovery, a heat pump, and photovoltaics ensure energy-efficient operation. But sustainability is evident here not only in the numbers but also in the durability of the architecture: in robust materials, long-lasting solutions, and a design that prioritizes permanence over short-term effects.
A New Landmark for the City
With the new indoor swimming pool, Chemnitz gains not only a modern sports facility but also a landmark that defines the identity of the Bernsdorf neighborhood. The combination of functional äprecision, atmospheric ätranquility, and contemporary äß technology creates a building that impresses in – daily use—open, clear, and with architecture that puts people at the center.
