Bahia in Bocholt is a year-round aquatic complex combining sports, leisure, and wellness functions within one cohesive environment. The facility is distinguished by its transparent ETFE roof, allowing natural sunlight to penetrate the interior and supporting plant growth. Lush tropical greenery creates an immersive atmosphere, evoking the feeling of an exotic holiday destination.
Year-round aquatic experience in a diversified functional layout
The use of a semi-transparent roof structure combined with extensive glazed façades enables vegetation to thrive in near-natural conditions within the complex. Thanks to the transparency of both the roof and façades, natural elements such as sunlight, clouds, and surrounding greenery become an integral part of the spatial experience, creating the impression of swimming outdoors.
The facility offers a tropical holiday atmosphere all year round—without the need for long-distance travel.
Bahia in Bocholt stands as a strong example of a well-designed and efficiently operated aquatic facility. With over 30 years of continuous operation, it not only delivers a rich user experience but also demonstrates long-term economic sustainability.
The project represents a modern, all-season aquatic complex that integrates sports, leisure, and relaxation within a single, cohesive structure.
Concept & Function
A dedicated children’s area for families with young kids is located within the main pool hall but clearly separated from other zones. This separation not only reduces congestion in the recreational areas but, more importantly, ensures safety by preventing uncontrolled access to deeper pools.
The children’s zone features varied pool shapes and depths, enriched with interactive water attractions and surrounded by greenery, creating an engaging and stimulating environment. A key highlight is a pirate ship with water slides designed specifically for younger users.
Sauna & Wellness Area
The sauna area is separated from the main water park to meet the expectations of users seeking relaxation and quiet.
The design of the interiors reflects the cultural origins of different sauna experiences. Finnish saunas with light therapy and bio saunas with aromatic and lighting effects are designed as standalone wooden cabins, integrated into a natural rock setting. Steam rooms are finished with materials and elements inspired by traditional oriental bathhouses.
Key Features of the Facility
- lap pool with designated swimming lanes
- leisure pool with water attractions
- water slides
- lazy river
- children’s area (paddling pools, shallow basins, interactive water features)
- jacuzzi and hydrotherapy zones
- wellness area (saunas, relaxation zones)
- relaxation spaces
- changing rooms and sanitary facilities
- technical back-of-house facilities
- food & beverage area
The spatial layout ensures intuitive navigation throughout the facility and clear connections between different zones, resulting in a high level of user comfort and efficient facility management.
Project Highlights
- year-round facility
- clear division of functions (sports / leisure / wellness)
- wide range of water attractions
- designed for a broad range of users