Minden Plans Replacement for Melittabad Public Pool
Rendering: Geising + Böker
(eap) The city of Minden in East Westphalia, Germany, is pressing ahead with plans for a new swimming pool complex. The existing Melittabad, which is operated by Mindener Bäder GmbH, is to be replaced by a new facility. The original pool complex dates back to the 1960s and has since been expanded and modernized in the 1990s. It takes its name from the internationally renowned coffee filter manufacturer company Melitta, which is headquartered in Minden.
High energy costs, outdated technology and a considerable need for refurbishment make a replacement building more economical than extensive renovation and continued maintenance, as the city states. This was the conclusion reached by Bäder GmbH, a wholly owned subsidiary of the city of Minden, following expert reports and cost estimates commissioned by the company. The new Melittabad is intended to provide a reliable venue for school swimming lessons, club sports and recreational use.
The contract for the new facility was recently awarded to architectural firm geising + böker. Its design features an open layout with façade elements that can be opened to blend the indoor pool area with the outdoor space. According to the current plans, five pool areas are envisaged: a 25-metre pool for school and club use with four lanes, a 25-metre sports pool with six lanes and diving facilities, a teaching pool with a gently sloping floor, a multifunctional pool and a toddler area with a slide and a small spray park. The facilities are to be complemented by a heated relaxation room overlooking the pool halls as well as spacious changing and washroom facilities. ■
