Innovative Project Will Transform Saint Francis of Assisi Church in Heerlen, Netherlands, into a Public Swimming Pool
Two architecture firms have teamed up to win a competition and transform the Saint Francis of Assisi Church in Heerlen, Netherlands, into a public swimming pool.
The church, built over 100 years ago, ceased its activities in 2023, and the city decided to repurpose the building for community use.
The project, called “Holy Water,” by MVRDV and Zecc Architecten, will give the vacant church a new social function while preserving the historic elements of the listed monument.
The innovative design features a pool with an adjustable floor, allowing it to be completely hidden, making the space adaptable for different uses. Alternatively, the entire area can be flooded with a thin layer of water, giving visitors the feeling of “walking on water inside the church,” as described in an MVRDV press release.
The lighting is inspired by the church’s original lamps, as seen in historical photographs, and is designed above the pool with four rows of fixtures that will also serve as lane markers for swimmers.
The entire project is based on the intelligent reuse of space. The original pews will be repurposed as poolside and café seating, and the former pulpit will be transformed into a new chair for the lifeguard.
The roof will be insulated externally to prevent excessive heat loss while preserving the view of the original masonry inside, which will be equipped with acoustic absorption panels. This approach ensures a comfortable indoor climate and energy efficiency, while preserving the church’s historic elements as much as possible.
The new public swimming pool in Heerlen is expected to open by the end of 2027.
This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
