Swimming pool in Bagneux

Project Description

This project involved the restructuring and extension of a swimming pool in Bagneux, in the southern suburbs of Paris (France). The purpose of our project, in an urban redevelopment area, was to transform the building’s image.
The refurbishment and extension form a harmonious unit. The extension is in light grey concrete, while the original building, with external insulation, is coated with cement in the same shade. This coherence is continued through to the hall floor in Lucerne quartzite laid as opus incertum.
The scale of the new building, highlighted in this way, displays a strong urban presence. Its large cantilever and forecourt provide a generous amount of public space. A play of light on the eastern façade recalls a reflection in water. The archway serves as a giant sunshade.
The project brings time to a standstill, with unforgettable ambiences, soft lighting, fluid architectural promenades, and curves replacing right angles.
The circulation area is flooded with unusual, blue-tinged, aquatic light, provided by a horizontal porthole in the bottom of the children’s paddling pool area. The light varies with the movement of the water.
The double-height relaxation area is encompassed by curved shapes and an attractive rounded window frames the view of the garden.
The architecture of the existing large area (two pools) has been preserved. The incline of the structure has been emphasised, with the subtle play of oblique lines also adding a contemporary touch.
The paddling pool gives children the feeling of being wrapped in a cocoon. The area is curved, which reduces sound reverberation naturally. The tall bay window floods the small round pool with sunlight. The space is designed to appeal to children’s imagination.
The large terrace resembles a beach, with a tall concrete safety guard providing bathers with privacy.
This is a place for discovery, in harmony with the ergonomics of the body.