The renovation of the Aldebert Bellier Tournesol swimming pool: an icon of 1970s France

The project for the renovation of the Aldebert Bellier Tournesol swimming pool in Taverny, by Studio Arcos B - Étienne Chauvelier, took second prize at the 13th edition of the Grand Prix architecture competition, in the category Shopping and Office C

The project for the renovation of the Aldebert Bellier Tournesol swimming pool in Taverny, by Studio Arcos B - Étienne Chauvelier, took second prize at the 13th edition of the Grand Prix architecture competition, in the category Shopping and Office Centres, Public and Service Buildings. The jury explained that: “the project for the renovation and extension of the Aldebert Bellier swimming pool was inspired by the historic Tournesol prefabricated collective swimming pool designed by the architect Bernard Schoeller and widespread throughout France at the end of the 1960s thanks to General De Gaulle’s “1000 Piscines” plan. The pattern and the mosaic shape of the small tiles used for the renovation of the areas surrounding the swimming pool complement the style of the original retractable metal roof, making the Tournesol model an interesting hybrid of architecture and macrodesign.
The redevelopment project involved work on an emblematic construction. The Tournesol swimming pool embodies an entire era and is a symbol of 1970s policies in France. The work aimed to preserve this symbolism and project it into the present. The new volumes are compact and partially underground, respecting the perspectives and strengthening the central role of the dome. This complex, bespoke architectural renovation has turned the existing construction into a sustainable infrastructure.

The pool has a usable surface of 2,433 sq.m. and a water surface of 470 sq.m. The project embraces its 1970s heritage, and the new structure remains faithful to the original spirit of the construction. The dome-shaped roof was designed by Bernard Schoeller, with clean geometries that are instantly recognisable. It is the hallmark of the building and a part of our collective memory.
Under the dome is the water centre, with a large Olympic swimming pool, a multi-purpose pool and a recreational pool for children. The tiles on the walls, floors and poolside areas are from two Casalgrande Padana collections: Brickworks Nuances, in the colours Cameo, Neve and Tundra, with a Satin surface, in the size 8.2x25 cm, and Petra, in the colours Antracite, Bianca, Grigia and Perla, in the 30x60 cm and 5x5 cm sizes. These contemporary tiles recall the original floor and wall coverings, highlighting the circular shape and making the most of the natural light.

Inside the building, the visitor is gradually accompanied on a journey that explores the structure. The large, circular volume is a smooth blend of tradition and modernity. The layout is clear and functional, with an open, easily accessible reception area and well-organised changing rooms. There are spacious common areas that lead naturally towards the original entrance, paying tribute to the sense of the original architectural design.
Sustainable, energy-efficient solutions and systems have been adopted, to ensure durability and smooth running. These include external insulation, a high-performance roof, controlled, comfortable acoustics and natural ventilation.
The outdoor solarium area is surrounded by a meadow with flowers and plants, allowing the construction to blend smoothly with the landscape.

Ph: Antoine Huot

Brickworks Nuances
Colour shifts and vibrant light effects characterise the Brickworks Nuances collection. With a simple, contemporary design, the 8.2x25 cm tiles come in eight colours, ranging from intense greens and blues to neutral black and white. They are available in two finishes: satin and polished, opposites in terms of light reflection. Stylish and functional, they are ideal for all kinds of architectural projects and settings.

Petra: porcelain tiles with the natural charm of stone
The bold, confident tiles in the Petra collection by Casalgrande Padana have a rich, understated elegance, combining natural material with modern intuition. Random veining and balanced notes of colour reveal all the charm of a material that has accompanied Man through the ages. Delicate earthy and sandy shades, neutral and grey nuances and tones with a modern, natural design blend with the imperfections left by the passage of time. The Petra collection teams the elegant beauty of quartzite with the resistance and versatility of porcelain stoneware.