Therapeutic swimming pools
Functional rehabilitation pools for patients and staff
Engineering that works for medical outcomes
Clinical Concept of a Rehabilitation Pool
At the first stage, we carry out the following activities:
- Definition of target groups and clinical use protocols: postoperative rehabilitation, neurology, chronic conditions, athlete recovery, elderly patients, group sessions, aqua fitness, etc.
- Selection of the functional program: current pool, underwater treadmill, contrast plunge pools (hot/cold), or a multi-zone hydrotherapy area.
- Development of a feasibility and economic model: CAPEX: pool (shell or modular system), technical room, ventilation and dehumidification, accessibility equipment, finishes. OPEX: water heating (elevated temperatures), ventilation, water treatment and chemicals, staffing, maintenance.
Key point: for rehabilitation pools, efficiency is more often determined by throughput and staff workflow organization rather than pool size. Convenient access, fast patient turnover and ease of maintenance significantly reduce operating costs and increase overall efficiency.
Functional Program and Layout of the Hydrotherapy Area
At this stage, our specialists focus on creating a space that is comfortable for patients, therapists and daily operation.
- Flow organization: dry–wet transitions, clean and technical zones, storage areas, therapist assistance zones.
- Access systems: ramp or zero-depth entry, pool lift, stairs and handrails; in many projects, a movable floor significantly improves accessibility and ergonomics.
- Service area planning: technical rooms, equipment access routes, maintenance zones.
- Early definition of microclimate parameters: humidity and condensation control is critical for user comfort and long-term durability of the building.
Engineering Concept and BIM Design of a Rehabilitation Pool
At this stage, the engineering concept of the rehabilitation pool is developed and full design is carried out in a BIM environment, taking into account medical usage scenarios. The type of pool structure and the range of operating depths are defined, and hydraulic, circulation and water treatment schemes are developed with priority given to stable water parameters and elevated temperatures typical for therapeutic procedures.
Special attention is paid to ventilation and dehumidification systems to ensure a safe indoor microclimate, prevent condensation and protect building structures. Power supply and automation systems are designed with redundancy and emergency scenarios, along with control algorithms for therapy and operational modes.
Within the BIM model, architectural, structural and engineering solutions are coordinated, including accessibility details, embedded components for pool lifts, handrails and specialized rehabilitation equipment.
Construction, Equipment Installation and Commissioning of a Rehabilitation Pool
At this stage, the project is implemented on site in accordance with the working documentation and BIM model. General construction works are carried out, including base preparation, construction of load-bearing structures and the pool shell, waterproofing, formation of slopes and drainage systems, and installation of engineering routes and embedded elements for specialized medical equipment.
In parallel, engineering systems and equipment are installed: circulation, filtration, disinfection and water heating systems, ventilation and dehumidification, power supply, automation and safety systems. Accessibility and rehabilitation equipment are installed, including pool lifts, handrails, movable elements and specialized training devices.
After completion of installation works, comprehensive commissioning is performed: hydraulic and functional testing, adjustment of therapy modes, stabilization of water and microclimate parameters, verification of emergency scenarios and integration with the building management systems. The stage concludes with staff training and test operation, confirming the pool’s readiness for safe and stable medical use.
Pool project timeline
Start of works
3 weeks
6 weeks
9 weeks
12 weeks
Clinical Concept1 week
step 1At this stage, the medical foundation of the future rehabilitation pool is established. Target patient groups, clinical protocols and hydrotherapy scenarios are defined, along with requirements for temperature regimes, water depth and equipment. The concept links therapeutic objectives with the functional structure of the pool, throughput and staff workflow, creating a basis for safe, effective and economically justified design.
Functional Program and Layout Planning1-2 weeks
step 2At this stage, the structure and operational logic of the rehabilitation pool are defined. Spatial zoning, circulation routes for patients and staff, dry–wet transitions, therapy areas, service zones and equipment storage are planned. The layout ensures convenience, safety and ergonomic working conditions for medical staff, as well as efficient and uninterrupted operation of the pool in accordance with clinical scenarios.
Rehabilitation Pool Design2 – 4 weeks
step 3At this stage, the clinical and functional concept is translated into precise engineering and architectural solutions ready for implementation. A complete set of design and working documentation is developed in a BIM environment, including the pool structure, pool technology, engineering systems, automation and accessibility elements. The project ensures coordination of all disciplines, compliance with medical and sanitary requirements, and serves as the basis for high-quality construction and stable operation of the rehabilitation pool.
Construction Works and Commissioning of a Rehabilitation Pool4 – 8 weeks
step 4At this stage, the project is implemented on site and transformed into an operational medical facility. General construction and engineering works are carried out, including construction of the pool shell, installation of water treatment equipment, ventilation, automation and accessibility elements. After completion of construction, commissioning, testing and adjustment of therapeutic modes are performed, confirming the pool’s readiness for safe and stable use within rehabilitation programs.
Staff Training and Therapeutic Program Preparation1 – 3 weeks
step 5At the final stage, medical and operational staff are prepared to work with the rehabilitation pool. Training is provided on the operation of equipment and engineering systems, as well as the setup and testing of therapeutic programs, operating modes and session scenarios.
Timelines may vary depending on project complexity and location.Each of our projects is developed with consideration of unique site and operational conditions. The sequential implementation of all stages of a rehabilitation pool project ensures the integrity of the medical, engineering and operational solution. Each stage refines and consolidates the previous one — from clinical objectives and functional logic to engineering execution, equipment tuning and staff readiness.