Nestled among century-old spruces at the confluence of two streams in Liberec, Czech Republic, the Forest Pool (Lesní koupaliště) has long been a cherished retreat for locals. Now, thanks to a civic-led initiative by Mjölk architekti in collaboration with architect Marie Vondráková, this beloved site has been revitalized with a timber-framed facility that blends seamlessly into its woodland surroundings.
Since taking stewardship of the site in 2020, the architects have spearheaded the entire transformation—designing, fundraising, organizing volunteer efforts, and overseeing construction. The result is a lightweight timber structure housing a bistro, sauna, showers, and changing rooms, built with minimal public funds and maximum community participation.
The new Forest Pool facility is not a monument to lavish public spending but a testament to resourcefulness and care. Combining CLT panels and lightweight timber framing, the building sits beneath a striking turquoise steel roof that shelters visitors from the elements. The design is intentionally modest, tracing the forest’s edge like lace—open, airy, and deeply rooted in its context.
The architects prioritized ease of construction, phaseability, and financial accessibility, ensuring the project could be realized despite limited resources. The timber structure follows the original concrete slab’s two height levels, incorporating functional spaces such as storage, toilets, a sauna with a lounge, and a bistro. The steel roof structure acts as both an umbrella and parasol, covering showers, changing rooms, and lockers.
The Forest Pool has a rich bathing tradition dating back to before World War II, when it was known as “Waldbad in Ruppersdorf.” Originally developed between 1937 and 1940, the site served both military training and public recreation. Post-war improvements included an access road, parking, changing rooms, and a restaurant.
The original facility was destroyed by fire in 2010, leaving only a decaying concrete slab. After partial revitalization in 2016, the pool reopened in 2018, but drought conditions and limited amenities hindered its success. In 2020, Mjölk architekti founded the Lesní koupaliště association, marking a new chapter.
The architects’ vision extends beyond the current project. Future plans include a children’s water feature, stepped seating, and new sports facilities, ensuring the Forest Pool remains a vibrant public space.
For now, the new timber-clad building stands as a symbol of collaborative design—proof that public architecture can thrive through grassroots effort. As snow melts and the first visitors arrive, the Forest Pool once again becomes a place of gathering, relaxation, and connection to nature.