Sports and Cultural Complex

Project description

Construction of a sports and cultural complex in Sainte-Hélène

Simplicity in Service of the Project
The landscaping approach is rooted in simplicity and attentiveness to the environment. The project aims to enhance this typical atmosphere by integrating the facilities into a bucolic and rural setting. Like the land of the Landes region, we propose a space where the edge of the forest creates a clear, inhabited glade, punctuated by identifying elements. Water is a major feature of the site. Drainage will be crucial for the long-term durability of the various sports facilities. Therefore, we incorporate different methods of soft water management on the site. Two ponds will serve as both a backdrop for the future cultural building and as irrigation for the fields.

Adaptation to the Terrain and the Osmosis Between the Built Environment and Space
The buildings, including the Airial, the cultural space, the covered tennis courts, and the grandstand, will blend into the landscape as though they have been there for many years. Their seemingly random placement is actually dictated by function, climatic orientation, and vehicle and pedestrian access. These buildings are served by parking areas located along the northeastern wooded edge.

Their volume integrates seamlessly into the canopy, never exceeding 13 meters in height. The roofs are pitched, reflecting the local architecture and the airial spirit, yet designed with a focus on contemporary aesthetics. The use of textured, cast-in-place concrete with integral color enhances thermal inertia, promoting good summer comfort. The addition of crushed Alios stone in the concrete mix will give the material a hue that blends harmoniously with the surrounding landscape and nature.

Functional Organization
– The grandstand, as per the program, includes a spectator seating area with 160 seats, four locker rooms, a clubhouse, and annex rooms (infirmary, referee locker rooms, technical and maintenance rooms, boiler room). The locker rooms are designed for easy and direct use for both the main field and the second field.
– The covered tennis building is located in the northwest of the Airial and houses locker rooms, restrooms, and annex rooms on the west side, along with a clubhouse on the south side. The locker rooms open onto a large terrace that runs along one of the outdoor courts. The clubhouse also extends onto a south-facing terrace overlooking the padel courts. This layout will foster an engaging and friendly atmosphere for these spaces.
– The cultural center includes three activities that should be able to operate simultaneously.

The three halls are grouped together but remain independent within an architecturally fragmented building. Each hall has its own entrance lobby. However, these three lobbies are connected to one another to facilitate maintenance and upkeep and potentially allow for shared use of the spaces.