Paris Olympics Aquatic Center

MAD was invited to design the Aquatic Center for the 2024 Paris Olympics in collaboration with Jacques Rougerie Architecture, Atelier Phileas, and Apma Architecture.

Located in Saint-Denis, adjacent to Stade de France, the center is one of only two new permanent venues for Paris 2024. It is connected to the stadium by a pedestrian bridge over a major roadway, forming a key urban link.

The design envisions the facility as a sculptural public artwork light, fluid, and responsive to the sky and city. Its curving, translucent form appears to float, shifting with sunlight like ripples on water. The structure accommodates 5,000 spectators during the Games and is designed to downsize post-Olympics, ensuring long-term usability.

Sustainability is central to the design. Around 70% of the building is constructed from wood to reduce carbon footprint. Solar panels help offset energy use, and rainwater is collected for irrigation across 6,000 sqm of landscaping.

A translucent curtain wall brings in natural light and serves as a 360-degree projection surface. During the Games, it will broadcast live events and local multimedia art, turning the center into an engaging public space by day and night.