Piscine Longchamp – Longchamp Zwembad

In 1971, the Piscine Longchamp first opened its doors, a sleek, modern marvel in the heart of Uccle, Brussels. This isn’t just any swimming pool. The Piscine Longchamp stands as a testament to innovative architecture and community spirit. Designed by architects Charles De Meutter and Jean Koning, the building itself is a work of art. Its most striking feature is the hyperbolic paraboloid roof. This unique roof spans the entire pool area without any intermediary supports, creating a sense of openness and spaciousness. This architectural marvel is achieved through a complex system of tensioned cables anchored in robust concrete beams. The pool’s facade is entirely glass, punctuated by aluminum tripod supports, allowing natural light to flood the interior. Piscine Longchamp boasts two inviting pools. There’s a large pool, measuring 33 meters by 16 meters, perfect for serious swimmers. The smaller pool, at 15 meters by 15 meters, is ideal for families and those seeking a more relaxed experience. The Piscine Longchamp hasn’t always had smooth sailing. In 2008, a devastating fire, believed to be arson, forced its closure. But the community rallied behind their beloved pool. The extensive repairs were combined with renovations. This included updating the pool tiles and replacing technical ducts. A year later, the Piscine Longchamp emerged, renewed and revitalized. The pool also boasts a top-notch water purification system, ensuring a clean and healthy swimming environment. It consistently ranks among Brussels’ cleanest pools, thanks to its chlorine disinfection and a supplementary ultraviolet system. This combination minimizes chloramine levels, contributing to a more pleasant swimming experience. And, for those seeking a bit of cinematic flair, the Piscine Longchamp even played a starring role in the film “Où est la main de l’homme sans tête.” A scene features Cécile De France diving from the high-dive, capturing the pool’s dynamic energy.