The town of Hasle, on the Danish island of Bornholm in the Baltic Sea, has historical importance as a local port for industry, fishing, and ferry services; more recently it has become a summer tourist destination. New plans are underway to revitalise the harbour as a place for living and recreation, and the new Hasle Harbour Bath – already a landmark and magnet for activity – is proving a catalyst for further development. With no natural harbour, the townʼs manmade harbour has been built up as a series of basins protected by granite breakwaters. While necessary, the barriers block views and restrict access to the open sea. These challenges have driven the design of Hasle Harbour Bath.

Hasle Harbour Bath comprises of a 360 sq m floating timber platform and two towers, sited within the network of breakwaters. The platform encloses basins of different depths, and the platformʼs outer edge delineates swimming lanes in the surrounding deep waters. Stepped towers rise from the platform, forming staggered seating of varying depths, allowing flexible use. Two diving platforms extend from the main stair tower. At six meters high, visitors are rewarded with views of the surrounding harbour, the sea beyond and the sunset.

A 25 meter floating ramp connects the Harbour Bath to the landing, where a new building, clad in Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified Azobé timber boards like the stair towers, houses a sauna, toilet, and an outdoor changing area. Designed to welcome all ages and abilities, the Harbour Bathʼs encourages users to respond to the structure intuitively. The designs for future development include a series of small wooden decks on the breakwaters, for more recreational activities at the site.