Holy Water by MVRDV: A Church Reborn as a Social Hub:-
In Heerlen, Netherlands, the disused St. Francis of Assisi Church is getting a radical second life as “Holy Water”—a public swimming pool and community space. Designed by MVRDV with Zecc Architecten, the project blends playful irreverence with meticulous preservation, answering the question: How can sacred architecture serve modern needs?
Design Highlights: Where Heritage Meets Innovation:-
- A technical marvel, the pool floor can be raised to create a dry event space or filled with a thin layer of water to reflect the church’s vaulted ceilings, amplifying its grandeur.
- Accessible design: Adapts for swimmers of all ages and abilities.
- Insulated roof and concealed technical systems protect historic materials.
- Glass partitions separate humid zones from fragile art and brickwork.
Why This Project Matters:-
- Urban Revival: Anchors Heerlen’s cultural resurgence alongside a Roman museum and restored cinema.
- Sustainable Reuse: A model for adaptive reuse of religious buildings worldwide.
- Community Impact: Addresses local demand for pools while preserving collective memory.
