Nestled within the serene bushland of Bold Park, the Bold Park Aquatic Centre is a striking example of sustainable design seamlessly integrated into its natural surroundings. Designed by Donovan Payne Architects and completed in 2016, the facility was conceived with a deep respect for the environment, ensuring that every element—structural and aesthetic—contributed to both functionality and sustainability.

Timber was selected as the primary structural material, not only for its natural beauty but for its environmental benefits. The use of Radiata Pine and Cypress glulam mass timber beams ensures both strength and longevity while creating a warm and organic feel throughout the space. These curved beams flow effortlessly into supporting columns, echoing the gentle contours of the surrounding landscape and reinforcing a sense of harmony between the built environment and nature.

Further, the use of acoustically perforated Hoop Pine plywood ceilings enhances both aesthetics and functionality, softening ambient noise to create a calm and inviting space. The careful selection of materials, combined with an abundance of natural light, fosters a deep connection between visitors and the surrounding bushland, reinforcing the project’s commitment to sustainability and biophilic design.

Protecting and preserving the mass timber of the Bold Park Aquatic Centre was paramount, particularly given the demanding conditions of an aquatic environment. CUTEK® was chosen as the coating solution for the mass timber used, offering deep-penetrating protection against moisture, chlorine exposure, and the humidity of a swimming centre. Unlike conventional coatings that sit on the surface, CUTEK® works from within the timber, stabilising it from the inside out to minimise warping, splitting, and deterioration over time. Its ability to maintain the wood’s natural appearance while enhancing its resilience made it the ideal choice for this project. Whether left clear to allow the timber to silver naturally or tinted to enrich its warm tones, CUTEK® ensures the wood continues to perform beautifully for years to come.

Awards:

2016 Australian Timber Design Awards:

• Best Timber Fabrication Award
• Rising Star Distinction Award

2016 WA Architecture Awards:

• Commendation

2017 Australian Timber Design Awards:

• Winner of the Internal Fitout – Commercial Category

Architects: Donovan Payne Architects
Structural and Civil Engineering: Airey Taylor Consulting
Fabricators: Timber Engineered Structure
Photography: Emma Van Dordrecht – F22 Photography