Suspended Glass-Bottomed Pool to be a Swimmable Pathway Between Two Buildings

It’s not everyday that multiple buildings are connected via a swimming pool, but that’s the plan for two upcoming apartment blocks in London’s new Nine Elms district. Marketed as a “world’s first,” this suspended basin will be 16-feet wide and 10-feet deep, with a glass bottom so that swimmers can gaze upon the sights 10 stories below.

Called Sky Pool, the structure will be about 90 feet long, and residents will be able to swim between the two buildings. If one doesn’t feel like paddling that far, however, an additional side bridge will form a walkable second path. A rooftop bar, spa, and orangery will also be on top of the luxury residences known as Embassy Gardens.

HAL architects are developing the 2,000-home complex, as well as the ambitious pool. Engineering firm Arup Associates designed the waterway, and they’re working with structural engineers Eckersley O' Callaghan and aquarium designers Reynolds to bring the idea to life. The expected completion is 2017.

HAL Architects: Website
Arup Associates: Website
via [Dezeen, designboom]