North Peace Leisure Pool
Fort St. John, British Columbia

Traditional pools, prior to the 1980s, were designed primarily with the competitive swimmer in mind. Strictly rectilinear in form, these facilities were designed for competition and training. The recreational swimmer took second place utilizing these standard “forms.” They lacked life, were cold, clinical, uninspiring, and completely utilitarian in atmosphere. In contrast to this tradition, the northern town of Fort St. John, where winter conditions are extreme, has managed to provide an innovative, multi-use leisure facility providing fun, enjoyment, and entertainment within a very limited budget.

Serving an area with a population of approximately 15,000 (in 1996), the North Peace Leisure Pool opened its doors in the fall of 1996 and had a recovery rate of 50%. The aquatic centre contains a 25 metre 6 lane lap pool providing both 1 and 3 metre diving, and a freeform leisure pool with zero beach deepening to a “lagoon” complete with oceanic waves. One of the most popular features in any pool complex is the wave machine, recreating the natural ocean phenomenon. The mechanics in providing this form of entertainment have become much more innovative. Creative designs can be achieved by providing waves doubling back on themselves, turning corners, and creating turbulence and splash. This splashing, turbulence, and moving water will remain the major aquatic attraction in this facility – for all ages.

In addition to the cloverleaf shaped swirlpool, a steam room, and sauna, the water moving features at this facility include overhead spray bar, a rubber rock and "lemon drop" spray, lazy river, seahorse spray, raindrop, and a waterslide looping outside the building providing an exciting ride while limiting the impact of the slide structure on the interior decor.

The spectacular "California Coast" theme gives the impression of a beach front swimming pool. With palm trees and banners, building supports painted like the trunks of palm trees, faux rocks, carefully selected and placed lighting, and a mural depicting a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean, with scenes of the Santa Monica Pier and brightly coloured sailboats, this pool provides an exciting, welcoming, and friendly environment in which to swim and frolic.