Is there public debate on the quality of the place?

Preserving the historic facility as a swimming pool and sunbathing area is in the best interests not only of the Lucerne monument preservation authorities, who supervised the restoration of 2010, but also of its owner, Seebad AG, which gives many Lucerne residents a stake in their lakeside bathing complex. For the restoration, local architects Bosshard & Luchsinger preserved elements of the past and reused them while simultaneously finding solutions for needs that had changed. In the process, they also took into account the wishes and expectations of the loyal regular clientele.

Is the place healthy and comfortable?

The first Kastenbäder, timber-framed bathing facilities, were built in the 19th century on various lakefronts and riverbanks in Swiss cities. Light, sun, water and exercise were regarded as beneficial to health. Thus Lucerne also planned a lakeside bath with separate entrances for women and men at the prestigious Nationalquai. The wooden Kastenbad was completed in 1885. Despite various alterations and renovations, the bath retains its original rectangular shape that surrounds two enclosed swimming pools within. The roof areas were subsequently converted into a sun deck, thus hugely expanding the usable space.

Is the place maintained and sustainably developed?

The history of the lakeside bath in Lucerne is a succession of constant changes. The 2010 intervention involved completely dismantling the Kastenbad, treating the wood and rebuilding the facility with a new supporting structure and outer skin. By reincorporating original components, especially in the changing room area, an unexpected combination of old and new wood was created. The architects thus found an independent answer to the question of architectural continuity.

Will the place remain attractive in the long term for living, working, leisure and/or tourism?

The high density of outdoor and indoor swimming pools testifies to the passion that people in Switzerland have for bathing. The clean waters allow recreation and exercise right in the middle of the city – something unthinkable in many other countries. Seebad Luzern is centrally located, offering a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its bistro and open-air bar, the place is also a summer gathering place.

Is the place socially robust?

When it opened in the 19th century, women were only permitted to use the internal pools, but ever since the second half of the 20th century they are now allowed to swim out into the lake just like the men. Today, of course, the bathing complex is open to all who pay the entrance fee. The lakeside bath enjoys a loyal regular clientele consisting of city dwellers of varying generations.

Is the place in dialogue with the landscape, urban fabric, colours and materials?

With the latest renovation, the historic Seebad Luzern has been adapted to modern times and current needs. In the process, a large proportion of the original built fabric has been reused. Various inscriptions on the wooden walls and on old enamel signs tell of times gone by. The bath stands on piles in the lake, is clad with wood all around and is only accessible from the shore via two footbridges. As an island in urban surroundings, it offers wonderful views over Lake Lucerne and out to the mountains. Its simple but charming means of construction contrasts with the dignified hotel palaces to its rear.

Is the use compatible with ecological principles?

Aside from swimming and sunbathing, visitors to the lakeside bath can take part in yoga and Pilates lessons in the open air. A small restaurant rounds out the offerings. Sewage and refuse are disposed of properly so that no pollution enters the lake.

Does the place’s beauty contribute to people’s well-being?

The Kastenbad has existed for over 127 years. It has always adapted to changing needs without losing its original charm. As soon as you step onto the platform floating above the lake, you imagine yourself on holiday and begin to relax. The blue-and-white-striped curtains of the changing rooms, which flutter in the wind around the internal pools, also add to this feeling. The Swiss Heritage Society has included Seebad Luzern in its publication that depicts Switzerland’s most beautiful baths – and rightly so.