The Molitor Swimming Pool: Art Deco Heritage in Motion

Built in 1929 by architect Lucien Pollet, in a context marked by the growth of aquatic leisure in France and heightened hygienic concerns, the Molitor pool embodies a synthesis of French luxury and craftsmanship. From its inauguration, it hosted numerous artistic events, attracting clientele from the affluent 16th arrondissement.

Its unique layout includes both an indoor pool—common at the time—and a 50-meter Olympic outdoor pool surrounded by two levels of cabins, reminiscent of an ocean liner. This dual design was innovative for its era. The architecture is emblematic of the Art Deco style, incorporating elements from the “streamline” movement of the interwar period, with naval references like portholes and gangways evoking the transatlantic imagination.

In a spirit of artistic synthesis, architect Lucien Pollet collaborated with master craftsmen such as glassmaker Louis Barillet, who created the pool’s stained glass windows.

Requisitioned during the war, the pool was gradually abandoned until the 1990s, when it was added to the supplementary inventory of historic monuments. In 2008, it was restored in its original spirit by architects Jean-Philippe Nuel, Alain Derbesse, Alain-Charles Perrot, and Jacques Rougerie. Only the east façade and the stained glass windows were preserved due to the building’s deteriorated condition. However, the façade was returned to its original “tango yellow” shade, as envisioned by Lucien Pollet.