The 2000 proposal for the Ultimo Aquatic Centre was driven by the desire to focus on long-distance views over the different pools to Darling Harbour and the city skyline beyond.

The external appearance of the building is given form by the 500m internal running track, which travels in a continuous ribbon around the pools and building perimeter.

The undulating position of the track is expressed via a screen-printed pattern in the layered glass facade, appearing as a wave in a vessel containing fluid.

Internally, a continuous translucent polycarbonate soffit connects individual pool and practice areas, forming a series of glowing sky-chambers that define the major spaces.