France sees rise in compact and container swimming pools

The French swimming pool market is experiencing a significant shift toward smaller, more compact formats, often referred to as ‘piscine apéro’. These small basins, typically under 10 m², now account for 20% to 25% of sales among most builders. This trend reflects changing lifestyles, where social relaxation and ‘sober’ water usage are prioritized over large lap pools. The average pool size in France has decreased from 42 m² before 1991 to 29 m² since 2019.

One popular trend involves repurposing maritime containers into swimming pools. While these offer rapid installation and cost savings, they remain subject to strict urban planning regulations. Depending on the size and location, owners may need to file a prior declaration or obtain a building permit. For instance, installations between 10 and 100 m² generally require a prior declaration of works, and specific rules apply if the property is located in a protected zone or subject to local urban plans (PLU).