Project: Bentbaša, Sarajevo
Location: Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Program: Open-air swimming pools, park, promenade
Year: 2022
Status: Concept Design
Client: Municipality of Stari Grad Sarajevo
Size: L 14,000 m²
Team: Studio Mrav | Sinteza | Osa scale models

The “Bentbaša” Project envisions the revitalization of the open-air swimming pools, transforming the site into a new tourist destination for Sarajevo that caters to both the local community and visitors. The project is organized into three key zones: the open-air swimming pools, an access promenade connecting Baščaršija to Bentbaša, and a park.

The 50-meter sports pool is designed to accommodate both training and recreational use, with a modernized form inspired by glacial lakes.

Bentbaša holds a rich history as a traditional bathing area and the site of Isa-bey’s mills. The proposed redevelopment aims to restore the area as a green urban oasis, enhancing its connection to the “Bentbaša – Kozija Ćuprija” walking trail and creating an attractive space for relaxation and recreation.

The “Bentbaša” project addresses not only the need for swimming facilities but also two additional challenges:

• Establishing a strong connection between the pools and Baščaršija, and
• Creating a starting point for the Dariva promenade.

The entire project is divided into three zones:

• OPEN-AIR SWIMMING POOLS with supporting facilities
• ACCESS PROMENADE connecting Baščaršija with Bentbaša
• PARK

Through the thoughtful design and integration of these three zones, the open-air swimming pools will become an attractive new feature of Sarajevo, offering an improved recreational experience for both residents and visitors and enhancing the use of the promenade.