Great Barrier Reef, Galapagos, Bali, Fidji, French Polynesia, The Bahamas… Where would you like to dive in today? The Swimarium™3D will take you to your dream diving spot without having to travel too far from home.
Conceptualized by the creators of the HIVE INN Hotel, OVA Studio has developed the Swimarium™ concept whereby advanced 3D image technology is displayed on the bottom, side and roof of a swimming pool, thereby creating a 360 degree immersive experience for the user.
The concept is inspired by organic environments and structures, it is reminiscent of the complex lattices formed by soap bubbles or the shells of turtles. The polyhydric shape of the pool and that of its covering dome permit the creation of a 360 degree environment. Beside the swimming pool, the designers have integrated a viewing room with bar (below grade) that allow users to enjoy the scenery without having to dip in the water.
Massage and changing rooms are adjacent to this space. An outdoor bar, a Jacuzzi and sundecks are provided for the enjoyment of users. The sides and the bottom of the swimming pool are lined with LED screens, while the dome utilises EPD technology combined with controllable opacity allowing for transparency or opacity depending on the user mode.
The dome itself is composed of an aerogel sandwiched between glass panels, providing un-matched insulating properties as well as transparency. The dome is roofed with transparent solar panels that will provide in excess of 50kW/h or electricity, nearly enough to power all the environmental systems of the Swimarium.
Screens display real time films of ocean sceneries around the world at the click of a remote control. Cameras are placed in various locations around the world filming both underwater and over water and the feed channeled to subscription users. In consequence one can choose a Great Barrier Reef environment or change to a Caribbean environment as easily as one changes channel on a TV screen.
The 3D perception is provided through ad hoc swimming goggles. In addition hydrophones and speakers will convey the sounds emanating from the various environments and oceanic odors will be diffused thus providing a 4th and 5th dimension for the senses. The beauty of the oceans is thus communicated in the hope of a better understanding and ultimately for a better nurturing of this precious resource.
Swimarium™ is a next generation dream an immersive environment dependent on advanced technologies that today may seem far-fetched but tomorrow may prove realistic. Come on, the water’s fine.
All Images © 2014 OVA Studio Ltd. Architects
