A Canal-side Swimming Center in Todmorden
Swimming in the canal was an entertainment activity for industrial workers, carrying the memories of people’s lives in the 18th and 19th centuries. This project aims to utilize this historical memory to awaken a shared sense of community among the people of Todmorden, re-establishing the importance of the Rochdale Canal in the city. It seeks to transform the canal’s industrialera transport function into a social public space, turning it from a flood threat into a place for preserving memories and celebrating.
The project employs locally common stone and wood structures, recreating the history of stone construction, while the woven wooden roof structure offers a unique spatial experience. The architectural form is inspired by the original Derdale textile mill on the site. The design of continuous sloping roofs not only enhances lighting but also reflects attention to detail and spatial atmosphere.
