Size matters: when it comes to designing waterpark resorts, the size of your facility will determine everything from the types of amenities to the types of guests. Here's expert advice on how to find the right fit for your needs.

Developing a waterpark resort can be a complicated matter requiring the services of professional consultants. You will need expert advice regarding economic feasibility, architectural design, aquatics engineering, heating and ventilation, water quality and theming. The new generation of indoor waterparks are different from the common indoor swimming pool with a few water attractions. Indoor waterparks may be designed as stand-alone community centers open to the public. Or they may be designed in conjunction with hotels and resorts for the use of their guests. The major difference between a community waterpark and a hotel waterpark is the requirement for extensive public showers and dressing areas in a public facility. If you are planning to construct a hotel indoor waterpark, most governing bodies will not require these extra dressing rooms and showers, since hotel guests have their own rooms.

The size of the indoor waterpark will be dictated by the results of your various feasibility studies. However, an industry rule of thumb indicates that a 100- to 150-room hotel may be able to generate enough additional income to support the investment of a 15,000- to 20,000-square-foot indoor waterpark. Hotels ranging in size from 150 to 250 rooms may be able to support a 30,000- to 40,000-square-foot waterpark.

The type of attraction you create is going to be dictated by the size and demographics of your leisure travel customer, the age of their children and the size of your indoor enclosure.

Here is a discussion of three different attractions--small, medium and large--grouped by size of the facility and the age range of participants they will most likely draw. This will help you match your facility configuration to the needs and preferences of your customer or the customer you want to attract.

Remember, the goal of the indoor waterpark design is to provide a relaxing enjoyable environment for families to spend from four to six hours. Theming of this facility is extremely important, so don't ignore it. Theming should fit your particular budget, but in no case should it be overlooked.

Waterparks Under 15,000 Square Feet

For a family with children 12 and under, an indoor waterpark under 15,000 square feet will provide a weekend getaway or mini vacation with the following elements: