Our story begins 163 years ago, when Swiss engineer Ernest Dapples was awarded the contract to build a public swimming pool opposite the place where the Olympic Museum now stands. The pool opened to the public in 1861. At the time, it offered a new way for locals to enjoy the waters of Lake Geneva. The building, constructed on stilts, was bought by Marc David Rochat in 1866 and subsequently became known as the “Bains Rochat.” Its story sadly came to an end in 1897, when the pool was knocked down to make way for Quai de Belgique.

Les Bains d’Atlantis is inspired by this historical tale. An underwater platform revives the distant memory of this public pool. Its structure echoes that of the now demolished building, albeit on a smaller scale and with contemporary styling. And, just as the Bains Rochat did in their day, it offers a new way for people to access the lake. When night falls, the structure is illuminated, tracing the silhouette of the long-lost pool and bringing their spirit back to life. When designing the future, we would do well to take our cues from the past.