Galin swimming pool

Project description

The extensive five-year rehabilitation of the Galin Pool breathes new life into a deteriorated 20th-century architectural heritage, transforming it into a sustainable 21st-century model. Recognized for its bold, contemporary design, the project seamlessly integrates sustainability, inclusivity, and cutting-edge technology, redefining the role of Sports in the city.

Urban Integration
Located in a high-traffic area of Bordeaux undergoing urban renewal, the Galin Pool stands as a floating aquatic platform that bridges the city’s bustling life and its residents’ need for recreation. Elevated above ground, the facility houses reception and changing areas on Level 0, with the Pools and Solarium on Level 1. Its tall glass windows frame the grand Bordeaux landscape, offering swimmers an immersive connection to their urban surroundings. A retractable roof transforms the pool from an indoor facility in winter to an outdoor Pool in summer. The previously neglected solarium has been reimagined with wooden decking, water features, and vegetation, creating intimate islands of tranquility shielded from urban noise by a glass acoustic wall. This design transforms the Pool into a social and recreational centerpiece, fostering community engagement and reclaiming the space as a vibrant urban oasis.

Inclusive Design
Historically focused on athletes, the Galin Pool now welcomes all. Redesigned for inclusivity, the facility integrates an accessible swimming path for people with disabilities and offers a shallow learning pool with water play features for families. By democratizing aquatic disciplines, the project has broadened its reach across generations and abilities. The rehabilitation of the main pool (15x25m), diving boards, and the addition of bleachers reinforce its role as a competitive sports venue while balancing recreational use.

Sustainability Leadership
Sustainability is at the heart of the Galin Pool’s transformation. The project follows a robust carbon strategy, preserving and restoring the original concrete structure, enhancing the wooden framework, and introducing an all-wood ceiling for the pool hall. Advanced cathodic protection technology was employed to rehabilitate damaged concrete, ensuring structural integrity with minimal environmental impact.Energy efficiency is achieved through full insulation, a naturally ventilated retractable roof, and geothermal and biomass energy systems. The facility uses innovative perlite (volcanic rock particle) water filtration technology, significantly reducing water, energy, and chemical consumption while maintaining crystal clear pool water. By embracing a circular economy, elements like monumental staircases and gravel partitions were reused, and demolition materials were sorted for recycling.

Impact: A Bold Vision for the Future
The Galin Pool is more than a restored architectural landmark it is a symbol of sustainable innovation and urban renewal. By prioritizing inclusivity, energy efficiency, and cultural connection, the project revitalizes a neglected neighborhood and places Sport at the heart of the city. Its forward thinking design demonstrates how heritage architecture can adapt to modern needs while embodying the values of sustainability and community.
This project exemplifies a new standard for urban swimming facilities, delivering a deeply innovative and impactful model, environmental consciousness, and a vision for the future of European cities.