Bournemouth Lifeguards Corps
The Bournemouth Lifeguard Corps is a registered charity operated by a volunteer group of publicly-minded people who provide life-saving services to Bournemouth. Footprint Architects were commissioned to design a new sustainable training facility that not only supports the operational needs of the Lifeguard Corps but also emphasises sustainable design. This new facility aims to support the Corps in their critical role of protecting and saving lives.
Sustainability
Designed to Passivhaus principles, a highly insulated envelope, integrated PV panels, and strategic glazing work together to minimise energy demand. Locally sourced materials and re-use of the existing slab further reduce embodied carbon.
Context & Place
Material and colour inspiration was drawn from the beach huts situated alongside the beachfront creating a natural timber frontage design which seamlessly fits in with its surroundings.
People & Communities
180-degree views of the beach help create a safe, engaging environment for lifeguard training, supporting physical and mental wellbeing through an active lifestyle.
Designing a Modern Community Volunteer Facility for Lifesaving Excellence
This new facility aims to support the Corps in their critical role of protecting, saving lives and enhancing the day-to-day operations of the lifeguards. Sporting a modern, sustainable design, the building will feature dedicated training and operational rooms, equipment storage and changing facilities. The natural wood-effect frontage of the building embodies a green and minimalistic approach. This community centre design reflects the facility’s coastal setting and helps to integrate it seamlessly into the environment along the seafront.
Creating Sustainable Solutions for Lifeguard Training
Our team designed the facility with a focus on sustainability and minimal environmental impact. The new structure will be built on the existing slab and low-level walls of an existing structure which has since become derelict and in need of repair, reducing groundwork impact. This approach minimises the impact on the site and existing promenade. The facility employs a light timber frame and cladding to minimise impact on the existing foundations and reduces the embodied carbon.
Sustainable Design Features:
- Built using offsite timber frame and recycled newspaper insulation, significantly reducing the building’s carbon footprint and impact during construction.
- High Insulation and Airtightness: The building is designed to near Passivhaus standards, incorporating high levels of insulation, ultra-high airtightness, and mechanical heat and ventilation recovery units.
- Utilising solar shading by designing overhangs on the southern façade reduce solar gains in the summer while allowing natural heating in the winter.
- PV panels on the roof aim for a net zero in operation approach, ensuring the building is energy-efficient and sustainable in the long term.
Designing a Purpose-Built Community Training Facility
The new training facility is designed to enhance the physical and mental well-being of the lifeguards through health and fitness activities on the beach and in the pool. It aims to create a safe, active, and fun environment where members can learn new skills and forge lasting friendships. The facility’s design supports the Corps’ mission to promote health, fitness, and water safety education, in collaboration with organisations such as the Royal Lifesaving Society (RLSS) and Surf Lifesaving Great Britain (SLSGB) whose aim is to help make our beaches safer and more enjoyable places for everyone.
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