CO2-neutral natural pool

Germany's first CO2-neutral natural swimming pool is being built in Eckermannpark in Winsen (Luhe). An energy self-sufficient, environmentally friendly and inclusive project is planned. In addition to the natural pool, a restaurant and pool building as well as a small pavilion for pool supervision will be built. We took on the planning of the functional buildings, while Polyplan Kreikenbaum is responsible for the design and technical implementation of the pool.

Terrain and water treatment

The bathing area covers 19,500 m², including 3,600 m² of water. The natural pool blends naturally into its surroundings, with an organic pool that is not connected to the Luhe, but to the pond arch. The water is treated purely biologically using plant filters, without any chemical additives. Playgrounds, sunbathing lawns, picnic areas, a water playground, boules lanes and a beach volleyball court complete the leisure facilities.

Exterior | Rendering © D:4 Architecture.
Exterior | Rendering © D:4 Architecture.

The swimming pool designed by Polyplan Kreikenbaum offers sandy beaches, shallow water zones, a slide, a climbing wall and five 25-meter lanes. The water is treated biologically using Neptune filters and phosphate absorbers in accordance with FLL guidelines. After purification in planted substrate filters, the water is returned to bathing water quality.

Aerial view © Gregor Szielasko.

Wooden pavilions and functional buildings

The bathing area is complemented by two functional buildings. A small pavilion for pool supervision on the west bank offers 40 m² of space for pool supervision and a first-aid room. The second, larger building with 400 m² accommodates sanitary facilities, changing rooms, the info point and a restaurant that can be used all year round. Both buildings are constructed in timber according to our designs and integrate harmoniously into the landscape.

Building concept: circular construction and sustainable materials

The single-storey pavilion building appears delicate and light thanks to its round shape. It rests on a concrete slab and is accessed barrier-free via ramps. The roof, supported by galvanized steel columns, is made of glulam and stacked planks and is extensively greened. A photovoltaic system on the roof supplies the natural pool with electricity.

Regenerative energy concept

The natural pool is operated completely climate-neutrally. A photovoltaic system with 66.24 kWp supplies electricity, and heat is generated by a water/water heat pump. In summer, the heat is obtained from absorber panels on the roof, in winter from the pool water. The energy concept also provides for the retrofitting of a small wind turbine. Rainwater is fed into the pond arch, which complements the overall ecological concept.

Construction progress

Aerial view © Gregor Szielasko.
Aerial view © Gregor Szielasko.
Aerial view © Gregor Szielasko.
Aerial view © Gregor Szielasko.
Aerial view © Gregor Szielasko.
Aerial view © Gregor Szielasko.
Aerial view © Gregor Szielasko.
Aerial view © Gregor Szielasko.

Further information

www.winsen.de > Citizen participation

www.youtube.com > Information event preliminary design for a natural pool in Eckermannpark

www.abendblatt.de > Bathing paradise in Eckermannpark // Article in the Hamburger Abendblatt (2022)