Dumpster diving is about to get a whole new meaning in Dallas. On August 10, the Design District Market will feature a custom-built dumpster pool, replete with a wooden deck and chlorinated water. The pool will take center stage at the event with a parking spot in front of the Dallas Contemporary.
The dumpster pool trend dates back to the summer of 2009, when the idea first took hold in Brooklyn. Since then, dumpster pools have been popping up across New York and the rest of the country. It's much more affordable than an in-ground pool, and it offers more stability and longevity than a traditional above ground pool. Plus, there's the cool factor.
"The idea got a lot of attention in New York, and we think it's a great fit for Dallas as well," says Genniva Bruce of Dallas Contemporary.
The idea of pulling off a dumpster pool concept is greatly aided by the fact that one of the event's partners is Progressive Waste Solutions. The company is building a brand new double-dumpster pool just for the occasion. Although dumpsters aren't very deep, Bruce says there will be a certified pool manager on site.
"There probably wont be much swimming involved, more like just bopping around in the water," Bruce says.
In addition to an ultra-trendy water feature, the Design District Market will host live music, booths with work from local artists, photographers and jewelry designers, and vendors from vintage shops across Dallas-Fort Worth. Ben E. Keith will provide the beer, and food trucks will be onsite to feed the masses.
Once the event wraps up, Bruce says they will deconstruct the pool but could possibly bring it back next summer if it receives a warm reception.
"We're not looking to open a permanent public pool in front of the museum," Bruce says. "It's a weekend installation piece."
Dumpster pools debuted in New York on Park Avenue during the summer of 2010.
