Water Cube

The Water Cube is the nickname given to the National Aquatic Center in Beijing. The swimming, diving, and synchronized swimming events were held inside the Water Cube. Its design was inspired by the shape of water bubbles.

There are over 3000 bubbles on the outside. They are made of a lightweight, but very strong material called ETFE. They are 0.008 of an inch thick. Each bubble or air cushion is also independent allowing for easy replacement when needed. The bubbles serve more than just aesthetic purposes. They are also used to provided solar power to heat the water or inside the cube.

During the day, you can see the Bird's Nest reflected in the water bubbles.

And at night, the Water Cube is lit by an LED system with over 16 million tones that turn it into a rainbow of colors. Mostly, water tones are used though.

The water bubble theme was carried over inside on the ceilings...

And on the walls...

A look at the busy lobby area...

The pool is 13 meters deep and was kept at 82.4 degrees.

The Water Cube took about 4 years and cost around $200 million to build.

Thanks to NBCOlympics.com for all the interesting facts.