East Marion Wave Pool
The East Marion Wave Pool renovation transformed an aging recreational facility into a safer, more accessible, and functional destination for families and visitors in Marion County, West Virginia. Originally constructed in the late 1970s, the wave pool remained a popular community attraction, but its existing bathhouse and concession facilities had become outdated and no longer adequately served patrons or staff.
The Marion County Parks and Recreation Commission selected OMNI Associates – Architects to develop a solution that could be constructed within a particularly challenging schedule. Construction needed to occur between the pool’s seasonal closing after Labor Day and its traditional reopening for Memorial Day.
At the center of the East Marion Wave Pool renovation is a distinctive curved steel barrel-vault roof inspired by the form of a crashing wave. The new structure establishes a recognizable architectural identity for the facility while housing a bathhouse, party room, lifeguard area, concession space, and ample storage.
Improvements to the pool deck and surrounding areas created a more welcoming experience for visitors. A gently sloping transition from the hardscape to the existing pool begins at the water’s edge, while surrounding lounging areas and cabanas provide additional spaces for recreation, parties, and pool rentals.
OMNI also reworked the existing parking area to increase capacity and improve accessibility from the moment visitors arrive. The site plan accommodates future expansion, including additional cabanas and space for another potential large-scale attraction.
Completed on budget and in time for the Memorial Day opening, the project gave the East Marion Wave Pool an updated identity while improving functionality, accessibility, and opportunities for future growth.
The project received the 2019 AIA West Virginia Honor Award for Excellence in Architecture – New Construction.
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