PROJECT  Walter P. Carter Pool and Bathhouse

LOCATION  Baltimore, Maryland, US​

PROJECT COMPLETION DATE  6/1/2025

Firm(s): CannonDesign 

Design Team Members: Monica Pascatore, Susan Silverman, Kurt Kawabata, Hrishikesh Rane, Scott Whitehead, Garland King, Theresa Domdey, David Kite

Client: The Mayor and City Council of Baltimore
Contractor/Construction Manager: Plano Coudon

Landscape Architect: Floura Teeter Landscape Architects

Structural Engineer: Columbia Engineering

Civil Engineer: MK Consulting Engineers

Mechanical Engineer: MIN Engineering

Electrical Engineer: MIN Engineering, Inc.

Photographer(s): Laura Peters (CannonDesign)
Additional project support: Weston + Sampson Inc. (Aquatics Design)

PROJECT SUMMARY

This new outdoor public pool was conceived with a dual vision: 1) to create an accessible oasis, and resort-like experience directly within the heart of its neighborhood 2) to create an adaptable, affordable and replicable kit of parts that could be utilized across multiple sites throughout the City. This vision is the baseline for establishing a city-wide equitable aquatic ecosystem. The project, along with the others within this series, is located in an historically underserved community with predominantly minority and lower-income demographics. The design is rooted in the fundamental belief that everyone deserves access to high-quality, beautiful outdoor spaces. In the peak of summer, the pool serves as a vital community anchor where residents can "get away" without leaving their neighborhood. The architectural design elevates the traditional municipal pool into a dignified, resort-inspired destination. By utilizing clean lines, durable yet welcoming materials, and thoughtful spatial organization, the design fosters a sense of pride and ownership among residents. Shaded pavilions, expansive pool decks, and integrated landscaping work together to create an inviting environment for play, socialization, and essential reprieve from the urban heat. Ultimately, this project is more than just a recreational facility; it is an investment in community equity, offering a safe, beautiful, and restorative environment that celebrates and uplifts the neighborhood it serves.

JURY COMMENTS (if applicable)

MEDIA FOR DOWNLOAD
Project PDF

IMAGES (Captions and Photographer Credit)
1. View of main entry access - Laura Peters (CannonDesign)
2. Aerial view - Laura Peters (CannonDesign)
3. View of family pool - Laura Peters (CannonDesign)
4. View of seating at main entry - Laura Peters (CannonDesign)
5. View of pool deck - Laura Peters (CannonDesign)
6. View of lap pool and family pool - Laura Peters (CannonDesign)
7. Aerial view of lap pool and family pool - Laura Peters (CannonDesign)
8. Aerial view - Laura Peters (CannonDesign)