This project began with a memory—a caretaker named Rasoul, living across from Ghezel Hesar Prison, who shared how life's hardships had taken away simple joys like swimming. Rasoul and his family cared for a luxury villa with a pool they could never use. This stark contrast between privilege and exclusion resonated with me deeply.

Reflecting on my childhood memories of Tehran’s historic Sorkh-e-Hesar outdoor pool, I envisioned a space that could bridge such divides. The idea was to design an open-air pool near Khoramdasht Boulevard, using a series of parallel walls to create a sequence of functional spaces. These walls, inspired by the silhouettes of sunset on the old pool’s translucent barriers, rise and fall to guide movement through the site, culminating at the pool deck and diving platform.

The design reimagines the pool as more than just a leisure facility—it’s a social equalizer. Affordable entry would welcome everyone: workers, families, even those who could never dream of accessing such spaces. Functionally, it doubles as an extension of the ceramic showroom owned by the client, who supported cultural initiatives.

Though the project remains unrealized as I’m now based abroad, I remain hopeful. One day, I dream of sharing this space with Rasoul and his family, watching as it transforms lives and creates memories, just as it once did for me.