East Marion Wave Pool

• Fairmont, West Virginia
• Architectural and Design Services
• Completed 2018

The East Marion Wave Pool was constructed in the late 1970’s and is one of two pools of its kind in the tri-state area. While still very popular among the steady stream of patrons the existing bath house and concession area had become unsafe and nonfunctional. A solution was sought by the Marion County Parks and Recreation Commission for a safe, secure and functional renovation that could be constructed in a very tight window between the Labor Day seasonal pool closing and the traditional Memorial Day opening.
The primary structure boasts a remarkable curved steel barrel vault roof that draws from the imagery of a crashing wave. The unique new structure consists of a bath house party room, lifeguard area, concession area and ample storage. The transition from hardscape to existing pool consists of a gentle slope beginning at the water’s edge that draws swimmers in gradually. This coupled with the peripheral lounging areas and cabanas make it an ideal place for the facility to host parties and pool rentals that will add significantly to their revenue stream.
To provide patrons with a more pleasurable and accessible experience from the on-set of their arrival a simple reworking of the existing parking area was achieved to increase capacity. The new layout also allows space for future expansion in the form of additional cabanas as well as a space for another possible large scale attraction. The East Marion Pool project was completed on budget and opened to visitors on time for the Memorial Day Holiday.

2019 AIA West Virginia Design Honor Award for Achievement in New Construction