Piscine Molitor: Paris’s Iconic Art Deco Pool
Imagine a swimming pool so glamorous it introduced the bikini to the world, hosted Hollywood’s first Tarzan as a lifeguard, and transformed into Paris’s largest ice rink every winter. That’s Piscine Molitor, a historic Art Deco gem in the heart of Paris’s 16th arrondissement. From its glittering debut in 1929 to its controversial transformation into a luxury retreat, here’s the fascinating history behind this one-of-a-kind Parisian landmark.
Located in the 16th arrondissement of Paris near the Bois de Boulogne, Roland-Garros, and Parc des Princes, Piscine Molitor first opened on July 28, 1929.
There was a grand inauguration featuring Olympic swimmers Aileen Riggin Soule and Johnny Weissmuller – the latter known for his five Olympic gold medals and his later fame as the first Tarzan in cinema.
Designed by architect Lucien Pollet, Molitor was nicknamed the “White Ocean Liner” for its Art Deco design, complete with porthole-style windows and sleek lines.
A Hub for Glamour and Creativity
Molitor, more than just a swimming pool, was a cultural hub. Its two pools – a 33-meter indoor pool and a 50-meter outdoor pool – hosted everything from fashion shows to ice skating during the winter months.
In 1946, Molitor became famous worldwide as the venue for the debut of the bikini, designed by Louis Réard and modeled by dancer Micheline Bernardini.
The new ‘Bikini’ swimming costume (in a newsprint-patterned fabric), which caused a sensation at a beauty contest at the Molitor swimming pool in Paris. Designer Louis Reard was unable to find a ‘respectable’ model for his costume and the job of displaying it went to 19-year-old Micheline Bernardini, a nude dancer from the Casino de Paris. She is holding a small box into which the entire costume can be packed. (Photo by Keystone/Getty Images)
During World War II, Molitor was repurposed for the German army, but its post-war years saw a return to its busy social life. It housed shops, a café, and even a hair salon.
However, by the late 20th century, its glory days were fading.
Decline and Controversy
In 1989, Molitor closed, sparking protests from locals and the formation of the SOS Molitor association to save it.
Despite being declared a historic monument in 1990, the pool deteriorated, with its walls crumbling and its Art Deco mosaics looted.
After years of legal battles and abandoned proposals, the city of Paris approved a reconstruction project in 2008, led by Colony Capital, Accor, and Bouygues.
The project, which cost nearly €80 million, retained only the east facade and a few decorative elements of the original building.
Modern Revival
On May 19, 2014, Molitor reopened as a luxurious complex, featuring redesigned pools (the outdoor pool now measures 46 meters), a five-star hotel with 124 rooms, all with views of the restored summer pool.
Although critics argue the site lost much of its historic charm, the restoration paid homage to its past, with recreated yellow “tango” walls and Art Deco-inspired details.
Access is now exclusive, reserved for hotel guests and members of the Club Molitor, which requires an annual fee of €3,300.
Guests enjoy exclusive access to the pools, a Clarins spa, a rooftop bar offering stunning city views, and two restaurants serving refined French cuisine.
The site also has modern touches, such as a street-art gallery and a graffiti-covered Rolls-Royce Corniche once owned by Eric Cantona.
Cultural Impact
Piscine Molitor has inspired art and pop culture for decades. It gave its name to the protagonist of Yann Martel’s novel Life of Pi and was featured in Netflix’s Emily in Paris.
In music, it’s referenced by Nekfeu and appeared in the music video “Nudes” by Claire Laffut and Yseult.
Molitor Hotel & Spa Paris – 13 rue Nungesser et Coli, 75016 Paris. website