Retractable Spatial Structures for Swimming Pool Enclosures

Abstract

Retractable spatial structures are modern buildings designed to comply with the user's flexibility needs – concerning the complete or partial opening of a building's enclosure. Most sport activities are usually preferred, by spectators as well as by competitors, to be held in open air. Swimming, a popular sport activity, is highly sensitive to cold and wind. The need for retractable structures arises since weather conditions vary with seasons while current market demand is for year-round activity. Designing retractable enclosures for swimming pools involves specific criteria, resulting from the safety and operational demands of such facilities. The variety of swimming pool geometries and the nature of the user's needs has resulted in numerous solutions of retractable enclosures, varying in size, geometry, structural systems, building technology, opening and closing techniques, building materials, maintenance and cost. This paper addresses current solutions of light-weight retractable spatial structures – designed to enclose swimming pool facilities. Swimming pool types are described, followed by a list of design criteria. Classification of structural methods is then brought forward, represented by specific projects and drawings.