In early July 2021, the Brussels Region’s first open-air swimming pool opened in Anderlecht: Flow is a small-scale project with grand ambitions that demonstrates just how much swimming and playing together can drive social cohesion, the regeneration of a neighbourhood, and the creation of meaningful, inclusive public space. A spoke to Paul Steinbrück of Pool is Cool, the project’s initiator.

From the Pierre Marchant Bridge in Anderlecht, you have a magnificent view. On one side, the canal stretches out, lined with tall trees. On the other side, you can hear children laughing and splashing, beach balls flying through the air and see families sunbathing. For right next to the bridge lies Flow, Brussels’ first open-air swimming pool. A wooden structure – two storeys high, designed and built by Decoratelier – connects the bridge to the pool situated beside the canal. The open structure envelops the pool and houses an intelligent system of circulation routes, changing cubicles, sanitary facilities and lockers. The stacking of these functions recalls the interwar-era swimming pool typology, where the changing rooms overlook the pool itself via a gallery and stands. This double-height design not only benefits the internal layout, but also provides space for swimmers to sunbathe, relax or wave to friends. All this with a magnificent view of the canal and the Biestebroek neighbourhood.