‘Sea Pools’ is Shortlisted for The British Book Design and Production Awards 2024

Batsford is delighted to announce that Sea Pools: 66 saltwater sanctuaries from around the world by Chris Romer-Lee is shortlisted in the Art / Architecture Monograph category for the British Book Design and Production Awards for 2024.

The Award is backed by BPIF, Oxford Brookes and BookMachine and is the premier recognition event for British book design and production.

To explore the full shortlist head over to the BBDP awards website.. Category winners and ‘Book of the Year’ will be revealed on Wednesday 29th January 2025.

MORE ABOUT SEA POOLS

A celebration of sea swimming – looking at the architecture, history and social significance of sea pools around the world.

The sea can be challenging and changeable. Protected from the dangers of currents, crashing waves and extreme cold, sea pools (also known as tidal or ocean pools) are manmade pools that provide a safe space for swimmers to enjoy the benefits of the sea at all states of the tide and weather.

Sea Pools begins with an introduction to sea pools within the history of outdoor swimming, their unique designs and architectural significance and commentary on the resurgent appreciation for sea swimming in the 21st century. Chris Romer-Lee selects 66 of the most beautiful and culturally significant sea pools from around the world, including the 25-metre cliffside Avalon Rock Pool in new South Wales, Australia, the sublime Pozo de las Calcosas in Spain that is shrouded in volcanic rock, and Ireland’s historic Vico Baths to name but a few.

Sea Pools also includes four insightful essays: Nicola Larkin looks to the next generation of ocean pools in her exploration of how we can conserve, protect and regenerate the coastline; Therese Spruhan testifies to the healing and transformative benefits of ocean swimming; Freya Bromley discusses her odyssey to swim in every sea pool in Britain; and Kevin Fellingham reflects on the importance of sea pools in South Africa.

The book is illustrated throughout with beautiful colour photography, as well as fascinating archive material to give an insight into the provenance of these vital sanctuaries.

Sea Pools: 66 saltwater sanctuaries from around the world by Chris Romer-Lee is available from our web shop and from other good booksellers.