The idea of ‘descending to the water’ was a strong sense throughout the town. I found this an interesting concept, levels on the land
descending to the sea and immersing yourself in the water.
This site is on the North Pier of Portrush, with a rock wall seperating the land and sea. The rocks are a major influence in design decisions, and therefore connecting with them
is essential. Cenote caves are an example of connecting with the rocks, the mayans believes they were a gateway to a new world.
Taking the idea of descension and a gateway to a new world, i decided that the experience of the baths would be a ritual, with each stage connecting with the rocks in a special
way. The user would ascend and enter the baths, then descend throughout the building, each level devling deeper and darker into this cave element. Descending deeper through
tunnel stairs and immersing yourself in the baths, maximising your connection with the rocks in an enclosed environment lit from above.
