If Paris can turn a disused train station into a world-class museum (the Musée d’Orsay), why not take an art deco municipal swimming pool (built 1927–32) -an architectural masterpiece inspired by a combination of civic pride and hygienic high-mindedness – and transform it into a temple of the arts? This innovative museum, 12km northeast of Gare Lille-Europe, showcases fine arts, applied arts and sculpture in a delightfully watery environment.
Address: 23 rue de l’Espérance Roubaix, Lille
Telephone number: +33 (03) 20 69 23 60
Opening hours: Tue-Thu 11-18, Fri 11-20, Sat & Sun 13-18.
Website: www.roubaix-lapiscine.com
