AQUA-SPAZIO

HYDROTHERAPY SWIMMING POOL DESIGN

A hydrotherapy pool is a specially designed warm water pool, typically between 33 and 36°C (91 and 97°F), 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. 

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Core design elements

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The following features are essential when designing a hydrotherapy pool:

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• Water temperature: The temperature is key for relaxing muscles and soothing joints. It must be maintained at a thermoneutral temperature, ideally between 34 and 35°C (93 and 95°F) for therapeutic use.

• Water features: Hydrotherapy jets, bubble pads, massage benches, and resistance swim jets can be incorporated to create a complete wellness experience. These features help massage the body and enhance the therapeutic effect.

• Accessibility: Ease of access is critical, especially for users with limited mobility. Design considerations include:

  • Ramps for disabled access.

  • Mechanical hoists (fixed, mobile, or ceiling-mounted) for transferring users from a chair or stretcher into the pool.

  • Non-slip steps with integrated handrails.

  • Moveable floors to adjust pool depth for different exercises.

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• Deck level or skimmer:

  • A deck-level pool (overflow pool) has water level with the surrounding floor, with water draining into a channel. According to the Aquatic Therapy Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (ATACP), this is the safest option for emergency evacuations.

  • A skimmer pool has the surround higher than the water level and is often quicker and cheaper to build for domestic settings.

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• Size and depth: The dimensions should be based on the intended use and number of users.

  • Depth is typically between 1.2m and 1.5m, often with varying depths to accommodate different exercises and user heights.

  • Space of at least 2.7m² per person is recommended for therapy sessions.

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• Plant room and environmental controls: A dedicated plant room is needed for equipment that manages water quality, temperature, and recirculation. Proper ventilation and dehumidification systems are also critical to control air quality, temperature, and condensation in the pool room. 

Commercial versus domestic considerations

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 rquire 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.

• Installation of large commercial in-ground hydrotherapy pools is common to accommodate more users and features, but for residential use both in-ground and above-ground options are available. Above-ground pools are more portable and less expensive.