Sea Pools

WINNER in the Architectural Book Awards 2024. SHORTLISTED in the British Book Design and Production Awards 2024. A celebration of sea swimming - looking at the architecture, history and social significance of sea pools around the world. The sea can be challenging and changeable. Protected from the dangers of currents, crashing waves and extreme cold, sea pools (also known as tidal or ocean pools) are manmade pools that provide a safe space for swimmers to enjoy the benefits of the sea at all states of the tide and weather.  Sea Pools begins with an introduction to sea pools within the history of outdoor swimming, their unique designs and architectural significance and commentary on the resurgent appreciation for sea swimming in the 21st century. Chris Romer-Lee selects 66 of the most beautiful and culturally significant sea pools from around the world, including the 25-metre cliffside Avalon Rock Pool in new South Wales, Australia, the sublime Pozo de las Calcosas in Spain that is shrouded in volcanic rock, and Ireland's historic Vico Baths to name but a few. Sea Pools also includes four insightful essays: Nicola Larkin looks to the next generation of ocean pools in her exploration of how we can conserve, protect and regenerate the coastline; Therese Spruhan testifies to the healing and transformative benefits of ocean swimming; Freya Bromley discusses her odyssey to swim in every sea pool in Britain; and Kevin Fellingham reflects on the importance of sea pools in South Africa. The book is illustrated throughout with beautiful colour photography, as well as fascinating archive material to give an insight into the provenance of these vital sanctuaries.

Chris Romer-Lee is the co-founder of architecture practice Studio Octopi. Chris was swimming in Lake Zurich when the idea for re-introducing swimming in the Thames was conceived as Thames Baths. He's been working on tidal pool restoration projects in Scotland, a seawater lido in Cumbria as well as on swim sites abroad. The Scotsman has named him 'a global tidal pool expert'. Chris regularly appears on radio and TV to discuss outdoor swimming. Since 2013 Chris has spoken at TEDx KPMG, Centre for London Conference, Somerset House,V&A for London Design Festival and many more. Chris lives in London and swims every morning at the Serpentine in Hyde Park.

- Introduction - Europe - United Kingdom - The Tidal Year, Freya Bromley - Africa - Tide and Time, Kevin Fellingham - Australia - Next-Generation Ocean Pools, Nicole Larkin - Saltwater Sanctuaries, Therese Spruhan - Rest of the World - Index