The Plunge Pool

Project Features

Client

Pacifica

Architect

James Gates Architect & Jules Wilson Design Studio

Location

San Diego, CA

Building Area

52,155 SF

The Plunge, inside Belmont Park, opened in 1925 as a Natatorium.  Originally a 60’ x 175’ saltwater swimming pool being directly feed from the ocean, the Plunge has since been a staple of not only the Mission Beach community but also the San Diego community. Most of the residence within San Diego will tell you that they learned how to swim at The Plunge. 

The aquatic facility most recently closed its doors in 2014 due to unsafe conditions. Originally planned was a repair effort to bring the facility back to an operable condition but due to cost escalations the project was turned into a complete reconstruction.

In January of 2017, Lusardi broke ground on the complete reconstruction of The Plunge and the FIT addition.  The new construction consisted of an aluminum ‘Open Aire’ structure complete with operable windows at 8’ above finished floor throughout the perimeter.  A retractable roof will work in tandem with the mechanical system to bring fresh air into the Natatorium and maintain the set point temperature desired by the operator. FIT was brought in to design and operate the high end fitness facility attached to The Plunge. FIT has incorporated two levels of mezzanines within The Plunge that will be used for group fitness and cardio. These mezzanine rooms within FIT are also equipped with vertical lift windows that can open to allow for a grand view and experience while exercising. The South end of the gym was fitted with a glass railed roof top courtyard equipped with a turf field for yoga or a group fitness which has vast views of South Mission Beach.

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