Architectural Design Strategies for Enhanced Crowd Management in Aquatic Centers

Abstract

Public aquatic centers are complex socio-technical environments characterized by high-density occupancy, varying user demographics, and unique environmental stressors such as high humidity and slippery surfaces. This paper investigates architectural design strategies to mitigate safety risks and optimize crowd flow in a proposed aquatic facility in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Through a mixed-methods approach involving literature synthesis, case study analysis (Sydney Olympic Park and Garden City Mall), and spatial configuration modeling, the study identifies critical bottlenecks in traditional aquatic layouts. The findings propose a "Dynamic Safety Framework" that integrates spatial zoning, anti-slip materiality, and real-time monitoring technologies. Results suggest that radial egress patterns and clearly defined "wet-dry" transitions can reduce crowd turbulence by up to 30%. Keyword Crowd Safety, Spatial Management, Human Factors, Safety Technology, Aquatic Centers

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