Studio DERA has successfully converted a long-abandoned swimming pool at Waltham Forest College in London into a cutting-edge, sustainable learning and wellness facility. The innovative project addresses the college's growing need for educational space as its student enrollment continues to expand rapidly.

The transformation began when College Principal and CEO Janet Gardner invited Studio DERA directors Max Dewdney and Marcel Rahm to reimagine the disused swimming pool site and conduct a comprehensive feasibility study. The architects had previously collaborated with the college, running sustainable materials workshops for students while constructing a hempcrete and timber community center and nursery in the nearby Higham Hill area.

Studio DERA determined that retrofitting the existing structure using natural materials would be the most sustainable and cost-effective approach to creating an attractive and inspiring hub for students and staff. Their RIBA Stage 2 Report and compelling design narrative, which aligned perfectly with the college's estate strategy, led to a successful funding application to the Department for Education.

From the project's inception, Studio DERA's design process was guided by extensive consultations with educators, curriculum leaders, facilities managers, and students. The architects conducted multiple workshops and engagement sessions to evaluate spatial strategies, technical requirements, and user priorities. This collaborative approach directly influenced key design elements, including the subdivision of the pool area into distinct zones, the incorporation of biophilic and acoustic features, and the addition of a stage and IT suite.

The architects worked closely with college administrators to balance architectural vision with practical operational needs, coordinating infrastructure upgrades and ensuring long-term adaptability and maintenance capabilities through the installation of a new renewable energy system. The entire project was completed in just 48 weeks, with ongoing fine-tuning based on real-time feedback from students and staff. The final result is a versatile, welcoming, and light-filled space spanning 994 square meters.

The redesigned facility, known as "The Pool," features five distinct learning zones, each specifically designed to accommodate various teaching styles and group sizes. A raised stage positioned at the former pool's deep end serves as a focal point for lectures, performances, and assemblies. Cleverly utilizing the original pool's depth, architects installed a new IT room beneath the stage to house high-performance digital learning infrastructure.

To dramatically increase natural light throughout the space, the original high-level windows were extended down to the external floor level. Studio DERA integrated window seating along the old pool concourse and installed fixed desks around the perimeter of the former pool tank to create study areas and spaces for small group work.

Significant improvements were made to meet Department for Education thermal performance standards, including the installation of triple-glazed windows, insulation of both external and internal walls, and new insulated pipework. The building's operational energy consumption is expected to decrease substantially thanks to air source heat pumps, mixed-mode ventilation systems, and LED lighting throughout the facility.

Material selection was guided by principles of low embodied carbon, durability, and circularity. The project incorporates FSC-certified timber, recycled acoustic panels, and low-VOC finishes to create an environmentally responsible learning environment.

"We wanted the Pool to be an inspiring and practical space that elevates student learning and staff functionality, and, above all, brings joy," explained Max Dewdney, Studio DERA's director architect. "We were really keen to show just what is architecturally possible in the education sector, which is so often sadly under-funded and under-prioritized. Janet Gardner at Waltham Forest College was a visionary leader for this project, and together with our great contractors, we've delivered an ambitious, design-led and sustainable hub which puts the user experience front and center."