Hasle Harbour Bath / White

Curated by Paula Pintos

Architects: White
Area: 960 m²
Year: 2013
Photographs:Signe Find Larsen

Text description provided by the architects. The town of Hasle, on the island of Bornholm, holds historical importance as a local port for industry, fishing, and ferry service. However, changing transport routes and a declining fishing industry has affected Hasle Harbour.

New plans are underway to revitalize the harbour as a place for living and recreation. The catalyst for this evolution is the construction of Hasle Havnebad – a new icon and a magnet for new activity in the harbour.

Hasle Harbour is defined by its numerous breakwaters, which protect the harbour from the surge of the Baltic Sea, but also obscure the view to the horizon and restrict access to the sea. These contextual obstacles have driven the design of the new bath.

The Harbour Bath is a floating platform placed within the network of breakwaters. From the horizontal plane of the platform, two stair formations project from that base, one reaching six meters into the air. From the elevated level, the beautiful sea view as well as the legendary Hasle sunset can be enjoyed, without obstruction.

Bathing can take place in the shallow, enclosed basins of the platform, but it is also possible to dive into the deep waters surrounding the floating bath.

A 25-meter ramp connects the bath to the shore, and while the slope of the ramp changes with the water levels, it is functional for disabled use within normal water level fluctuations.

A building at the ramp’s landing contains a sauna, toilet, and outdoor changing area. Both the building and the stair elements are clad with FSC certified Azobé timber boards. Yet to be realized is a series of small wooden decks, draping the sharp breakwater stone blocks. These decks create additional spaces for activities surrounding the Harbour Bath.

Hasle Harbour Bath / White - Handrail — © Signe Find Larsen

All of the recreational facilities are available to public and express an openness that encourages a wide variety of social uses, for local residents and tourists alike.