Les Bains Des Docks, Modern aquatic center in Le Havre, France
Les Bains des Docks is a modern swimming center in Le Havre's harbor area with multiple pools for different activities and skill levels. The facility offers both indoor and outdoor swimming areas along with relaxation spaces.
Les Bains des Docks was inaugurated on 17 July 2008, after two years of construction costing 22.4 million euros, as part of the revitalisation of Le Havre's port and its new marina. Defects appeared within weeks, and the complex closed on 6 January 2013 for eight months of repairs costing 7.8 million euros; it reopened on 7 August 2013. Management was delegated to Vert Marine in July 2013, and attendance rose from 294,026 entries in 2011 to 321,611 in 2014.
The name refers to the docks where the complex stands, in Le Havre's redeveloped harbour district. The layout follows the Roman thermal baths: bathers move between pools of different temperatures, indoors and out, rather than staying in one tank. The Telegraph listed it among the world's coolest urban pools in June 2018, days before its tenth anniversary.
The center is easily accessible and offers areas for all ages, from children's pools to dedicated sports zones. Visiting in early morning or afternoon hours helps avoid busier periods.
The building was featured in the August 2009 issue of Architectural Record. Its lighting was designed by Odile Soudant, and the architects at Jean Nouvel's studio who worked on it include Mirco Tardio, Julie Fernandez and Felix Medina. In June 2018, days before its tenth anniversary, The Telegraph listed it among the world's coolest urban pools.
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