Client:

City of Sierre, Switzerland

Location:

Lac de Géronde, Sierre, Valais, Switzerland

Duration:

Planning 2010-2013, Construction 2012-2014

Project Team:

NAU Architecture + Drexler Guinand Jauslin Architekten

(NAU + DGJ cooperative)

The renovation of the historical outdoor pool complex “Les Bains de Géronde” is designed as

a renaturalization of the shore, recreating a sensible connection to the lake. The new pools

are conceived as two water surfaces hovering slightly over the lake of Géronde with stairs

and boardwalks providing swimmers direct access to the lake. The design of landscape

follows organic forms. The shores are re-naturalized using local vegetation such as water

lilies, reeds and other indigenous species. The renewed natural landscaping encompasses

the swimming area, creating an idyllic setting for the bathing experience.

The original semicircular changing-room building by Hans Bieri, embedded in the landscape,

serves as a second source of inspiration. Two new arms housing the entrance, the service

areas and the sanitary spaces extend Bieri’s original horseshoe geometry as a welcoming

sign on the west and as a meandrous ramp along the hillside on the east. The resulting

terrace allows for both the harmonious integration of the new program, and the creation of a

roof promenade for strolls around the lake in the off-season, when the baths are closed. The

careful restoration of this modernist facility enhances its impact. The material palette, limited

to concrete, aluminum and wood, serves as a contemporary counterpart to the historical

features. The pioneering spirit of modernist sport architecture informs this sustainable

expansion and brings in return the picturesque location of Géronde to the foreground.