Even though the facades are formed by curved lines, the interior distribution is arranged with rigorous orthogonality, in order to generate an elegant and comfortable contrast between curved and straight lines to reflect an impression of vitality. Natural light was an important aspect for the project, in this way the sunlight combined with the reflections in the water highlight the true dimensions of the spaces.
Swimming pool complex in Fondettes by Dominique Coulon & associés. Photograph by Eugeni Pons.
Swimming pool complex in Fondettes by Dominique Coulon & associés. Photograph by Eugeni Pons.
Project description by Dominique Coulon & associés
The swimming pool complex lies beside the entrance to the town of Fondettes, just a few kilometres from the city of Tours. The urban backdrop here is mainly residential with a housing estate. The site of the swimming pool complex is completely flat. It faces a roundabout that was recently built.
The edifice plays the demanding role of signalling its presence while creating a new landscape. Its long white walls stretch afar and seem to reflect the skyline. The outline of this structure is lunar and dreamlike. It unfolds in the middle of fields, its series of concave lines culminating in the town's entrance. With perspective, its curved walls, which extend over a hundred metres, reach spellbinding slenderness and a mesmerising scale. These elevations enclose the complex’s outdoor spaces and glide up to the building’s highest point to house the largest pools within a double height. The roof follows these walls, so it naturally slopes with them.
Swimming pool complex in Fondettes by Dominique Coulon & associés. Photograph by Eugeni Pons.
The layout of the swimming pool complex is rigorously orthogonal. Set within the sweeping curves of the enclosing walls and the slant of the roof, the spaces give an impression of vitality. The staggered arrangement of the pools creates a circuit that is varied and fun. Though the spaces are open, they reveal themselves gradually throughout the circuit.
Natural light combined with reflections in the water brings out the true dimensions of the spaces. There are many different points of view and extensive transparency offers countless vistas of the landscape. Everything here is designed to give the place a playful, gentle dimension.
The subdivided spaces are designed like refuges. They consider people with ergonomics and comfort.
Swimming pool complex in Fondettes by Dominique Coulon & associés. Photograph by Eugeni Pons.
Swimming pool complex in Fondettes by Dominique Coulon & associés. Photograph by Eugeni Pons.
The outdoor spaces have been designed like an open-air interior. The plants that dot them serve as filters between the complex and the spaces reserved for sports. The wellness space extends outside in the form of a sun deck.
This project creates a peaceful interaction between architecture and landscape. And the construction design is resolutely ergonomic.
