HYDROTHERAPY SWIMMING POOL DESIGN

A hydrotherapy pool is a specially designed warm water pool, typically between 33°C and 36°C  for aquatic physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and wellness. Unlike standard swimming pools, they feature therapeutic jets, specialised access, and carefully controlled water conditions. A successful design requires careful consideration of the pool's purpose, the users' needs, and the necessary technical equipment. ​

 

While designing hydrotherapy pools, we keep the water temperature that is key for relaxing muscles and soothing joints between 34°C and 35°C for therapeutic use. We also include water features like hydrotherapy jets, bubble pads, massage benches, and resistance swim jets to create a complete wellness experience. These features help massage the body and enhance the therapeutic effect.

 

Ease of access is critical, especially for users with limited mobility, so we include lifts for disabled access. These are basically mechanical hoists (fixed, mobile, or ceiling-mounted) for transferring users from a chair or stretcher into the pool and non-slip steps with integrated handrails.

 

Since a deck-level pool (overflow pool) has water level with the surrounding floor, with water draining into a channel, this is the safest option for emergency evacuations but we don' alays hav spca for his, especially in London. A skimmer pool has the surround higher than the water level and is often quicker and cheaper to build, and we build it alf in half out so hat pool side opeativs do not have to bend too much.

​

Hydrotherapy pool design requirements vary significantly between commercial and residential projects. Commercial hydrotherapy pools must adhere to commercial building and accessibility guidelines while residential hydrotherapy pools offer more flexibility, being subject to domestic building regulations. Commercial hydrotherapy pools require features like hoists, ramps, and spacious concourses (min. 2m² on at least two sides) to accommodate stretchers and wheelchairs. For domestic hydrotherapy pools accessibility can be tailored to the specific needs of the primary user, which may allow for less restrictive design.

 

Commercial hydrotherapy pools are designed for higher bather loads and faster water turnover, and must comply with Water Quality Management (PWTAG) guidelines.Residential hydrotherapy pools have lower bather load requirements, allowing for smaller, simpler filtration and turnover systems.

 

Commercial hydrotherapy pools often include advanced features like underwater treadmills for athletes or groups while the domestic ones can be designed for individual or family use, with options like massage jets and lounge areas. 

​