TideWays
A Seemless Water Journey
TideWays reimagines the public aquatic experience through an inclusive, fluid design where water becomes both a connector and a sensory journey. Responding to the challenge of invisible accessibility, the project eliminates barriers through spatial continuity, intuitive interfaces, and shared circulation for all users. The experience adapts to different physical and cognitive abilities without differentiation or stigmatization, offering enjoyment, autonomy, and dignity.
Two complementary circuits define the water journey: the low-water track, where users glide on ergonomic AquaRiders: motorized floaters with a handlebar, safety belts for children, and dry seating with under-seat storage; and the deep-water track, where users float freely in body-temperature water enhanced with salinity and micro-jets to ease movement. FloatPads are available at every dressing cubicle for extra support if needed.
There are three toilets, two standard and one larger for families or extra needs. Each is accessed through a dry zone separated by a watertight gate from the wet circuit.
The changing cubicles (20 standard, 5 family) are genderless and non-hierarchical, no lockers, no codes, just flow. Each cubicle includes three zones: an entry space for parking the floater, a dry central area with seating and hooks for changing and drying, and a wet exit zone with a shower. Both ends are sealed by controlled gates, allowing smooth, dry-to-wet transitions with no physical obstacles.
Vertical movement occurs through a water elevator inspired by nautical lock systems. It fits either two adults or one adult and two children. A rear water tank fills or drains to raise or lower the chamber, enabling smooth transitions between levels.
Navigation and interactions are guided by a multi-sensory wristband that vibrates (1, 2, or 3 pulses), emits audio cues, and lights up for confirmation. A luminous button allows users to confirm actions, select directions, or link with family members via proximity pairing.
(From competitor's text)
The jury found that the proposal is engaging and original, though it may be better suited to a recreational complex than a sports complex. While the changing rooms are somewhat compact, the proposal's strengths in innovation and creativity are evident.
(From jury report)
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- Axonometric Drawing
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