Exhibition Pool
Overview
In preparation for Piscina Barcelona 2025, one of the world's leading trade fairs for the swimming pool industry, Dekobo set out to create a custom exhibition pool that would showcase its automatic pool cover systems in a realistic environment. I was entrusted with designing the complete structure and coordinating its production, from the initial concept through manufacturing.
With only four months available before the exhibition, the project had to be completed alongside the company's busiest production season, making careful planning and close collaboration essential.
Project Development
The objective was to design an exhibition pool that would not only demonstrate Dekobo's submerged pool cover system but also reflect the company's design philosophy. Besides functionality, the pool needed to attract visitors, be transportable, and withstand repeated assembly and disassembly for future exhibitions.
To create a visual connection with Dekobo's product portfolio, I incorporated the same Disegna wooden cladding used on the Milano pool cover model, giving the exhibition pool a distinctive appearance while maintaining a consistent brand identity.
One of the owner's primary requirements was to use transparent pool walls so visitors could observe the submerged cover system in operation. Achieving this while ensuring structural integrity, watertightness, and an attractive appearance became the project's greatest engineering challenge.
Structural Design and Manufacturing
The exhibition pool was designed as a two-piece assembly to simplify manufacturing, transportation, and installation.
The lower section consisted of a welded steel base frame constructed from AISI 316 rectangular profiles. L-profiles positioned and supported the upper pool structure, while four integrated wheels allowed the entire assembly to be moved easily around the exhibition hall. The base also incorporated a dedicated compartment for the electrical equipment controlling the submerged cover. To maintain the clean appearance of the wooden cladding, I designed a push-to-open access door that blended seamlessly into the surrounding panels.
The upper section consisted of a polished AISI 316L stainless steel frame with transparent plexiglass side panels. Working closely with Dekobo's welding specialist, we developed a fastening solution that allowed the plexiglass panels to be replaced individually if damaged, significantly improving the serviceability and long-term usability of the exhibition pool.
To facilitate transportation and installation, I also integrated concealed lifting points into the upper structure. These were hidden beneath the removable top covers of the corner columns, allowing the pool to be safely lifted without compromising its clean exterior appearance.
System Integration
To demonstrate the product under realistic operating conditions, the pool was equipped with one of Dekobo's submerged automatic pool cover systems. The cover displayed the full range of available slat colours, allowing visitors to compare the different options during live demonstrations.
To further simulate a real swimming pool installation, I also designed an integrated staircase inside the pool, creating a more authentic presentation while demonstrating that the cover system could operate around typical pool features.
Outcome
The exhibition pool was successfully completed within the available four-month development period and delivered in time for Piscina Barcelona 2025.
According to feedback from colleagues attending the exhibition, the installation attracted significant visitor attention and effectively showcased Dekobo's automatic pool cover technology. The project demonstrated the importance of combining engineering, manufacturing coordination, and product presentation to deliver a functional exhibition piece under demanding time constraints.