One of the most recent French
architectural marvels floats to you on
the River Seine — yes, on it. From
Seine Design comes the Annette K, a
barge designed in 2023 to be a living
space wholly dedicated to mind and
body well-being.
Complete with an Olympic-length
swimming pool, spa and multiple
physiotherapist offices, as well as a
coffee shop and restaurant, the Annette
K is compatible with many forms of
leisure activities. “[The appeals of the
project were] being near the Seine,
bathing, sunbathing and thriving
through the spaces and throughout
each day,” the architects said in a
statement to ArchDaily.
Perhaps the most notable
feature of the Annette K project is
the construction of the swimming
pool, as it is suspended at the top
of the barge in a real feat of design
prowess and engineering acumen.
The heating provided by the pool is
used to warm all of the spaces in the
lower decks. The architects refer to
it as a Nordic pool because of the
suspension in its design, adding, “the
idea of a Nordic pool reinforces this
feeling of living outside, between the
elements (swimming under the rain,
or a freezing night of winter), with a
minimum of enclosed spaces on the
terrace rooftop.”
Paired with a running track around
the swimming pool that creates a
dynamic ring around the building,
the Annette K is nothing short of an
incredible addition to the majestic
scenery on the banks of the River Seine.
Another design direction worth
noting is the special attention the
architects paid to accessibility. They
worked with experts to improve
accessibility modifications for all sports
and swimming pool access, which is
visible throughout the building. The
architects also ensured that no users
of the building and passing guests feel
left out or are unable to participate
in the many activities offered — an
important pillar of design that has
become arguably more and more
relevant in recent years.
With the sun shining over the pool
and the surrounding barge at all times
and at all sides, this project on the
Seine is sure to dazzle all who get the
chance to experience it.
This article first appeared in the February 2025 issue of AQUA Magazine — the top resource for retailers, builders and service pros in the pool and spa industry. Subscriptions to the print magazine are free to all industry professionals. Click here to subscribe.
