Moyen-Vernet Arena

Project description

Construction of an arena in the Moyen-Vernet district

Integration into the Site
A detailed analysis of the site led us to seek integration of the program elements into a compact volume that envelops the two main activity spaces, the large multi-purpose hall and the reception area, as closely as possible. This volume, in our view, should not exceed the necessary height to maintain the building within the green surroundings offered by the site, chosen to host a public building. The plot is located in a wooded residential area.

Architectural Design
We propose a compact building that closely encloses the volumes dedicated to the main activities, namely the multi-purpose hall and the reception area.
The optimization of the volume’s impact, through the compactness of the functional elements dedicated to these activities, and its adaptation to the two main entities—the large hall and the reception area—resulted in an “enclosure” of the entire structure by a shimmering white ribbon. The volume and its material express the strength and grounding of the sport, symbolized by deep roots. The ribbon, the curved shapes, and the subtle lighting from the glass bricks at night assert the artistic sensitivity of the design.

The sports hall, which can host cultural events, has a capacity of 2,700 seats, with the possibility to expand easily to 5,100 seats.
The reception area is flexible, divisible into two independent spaces. The layout of the entire facility allows it to accommodate combat sports and artistic or rhythmic gymnastics (GR), with a ceiling height of 8.5 meters. This space can also be directly connected to the main hall’s activity area via a removable stand row.

To affirm an architectural concept of compactness and harmonization in a simple, tapered, solid yet sensitive built volume, a homogeneous construction system was necessary. The roof of the large hall is designed with a tensioned cable structure in double barrel form, spaced by struts. The building envelope is made of reinforced concrete cast in place, embedded with glass bricks. The structural concrete is light gray cement with white aggregates, and will be finished with a white millimeter-thick concrete surface. Insulation will be installed internally, with cladding in wooden and/or steel panels, perforated to varying degrees based on acoustic requirements. The internal side of the concrete wall, near the entrance and in the hall, will be covered with self-patinated steel sheets with enhanced superficial corrosion, a material matching the ones used for the planters in the forecourt to extend the “ribbon” of the building and intuitively guide visitors to the entrance.

The building will be equipped with a highly efficient energy system, including a water-to-water heat pump, photovoltaic membrane, and double-flow thermodynamic ventilation.