With the advent of the Olympic Games in Paris—after an entire century—just around the corner, the historically and culturally rich suburbs of Saint-Denis prepare for a grand welcome with the award-winning Aquatics Centre. Designed by Cécilia Gross of VenhoevenCS and Laure Mériaud of Ateliers 2/3/4/, it is the sole permanent building out of all the new structures built to host the Games. …The project is a part of Paris’ urban renewal strategy, aspiring to contribute to a longstanding legacy for the neighbourhood and beyond. …The building features inclined walls sheathed in horizontal wooden members—creating a warm, inviting facade design. The form of the expansive wooden roof resembles a gentle wave, reflecting the fluidity of the pool on the floor. …Using bio-sourced wood as a construction material brings warmth and comfort to the arena while addressing the structural, aesthetic, acoustic, energy, social and urban concerns.