Sea Pools

An ode to sea swimming - looking at the architecture, history and social significance of sea pools.

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 some 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; Herring Pond in Northern Ireland; Perranporth Beach Tidal Pool nestled in the rocks in Cornwall, UK, and Saunders Rock Tidal Pool in Western cape, South Africa. The book also features insightful essays by Kevin Felligham, Nicola Larkin, Marie-Louise McDermott and Freya Bromley.

The book is illustrated throughout with beautiful colour photography, as well as archive material.

About the Author

Chris Romer-Lee is the co-founder of the architecture practice Studio Octopi. Chris was splashing around in Lake Zurich when the idea for re-introducing swimming in the Thames was conceived as Thames Baths CIC. Now the practice is leading the way in developing ideas for the increased recreational use of the River Thames. Since 2013 Chris has spoken at TEDx KPMG, Centre for London 2015 Conference, Somerset House, V&A for London Design Festival and many more. Chris teaches at London School of Architecture (LSA). Before this he taught at Kent University for two years, and has been a guest critic at Sheffield, Bath and London Metropolitan Universities.