Major Restructuring of the Toulouse Stadium

Project description

Major restructuring of the Toulouse Stadium for Euro 2016.

At the heart of urban renewal
The Toulouse Stadium was built between 1936 and 1950 by architect Montariol. Surrounded by an oval concrete enclosure, it is part of the city’s architectural heritage.
It is located on the Ramier Island, right in the heart of Toulouse, in the middle of the Garonne River. The stadium, along with the aquatic complex, is a key element of the future urban park of the city. This green lung of the island contributes to the establishment of the future Grand Parc Garonne project, enhancing the river.
The arrival of the tramway on the island and the vast urban development project mentioned will lead to a redefinition of the stadium’s access points. Specifically, it is planned to modify the stadium’s enclosure by creating a true East forecourt, integrated into the perimeter. The West access will also be redefined, allowing for better management of the increased flow of spectators from this side.

Interior restructuring for Euro 2016
The restructuring of the stadium is envisioned in preparation for Euro 2016. The project aims to bring the stadium into compliance with UEFA regulations, ensuring a capacity of 33,455 comfortable, secure, and evenly distributed seats.
To achieve this, the lower stands, built in 1984 where the velodrome once stood, will be demolished and rebuilt in compliance with the “functional and technical program” – with a stand depth of 72 cm, a visual rise coefficient of 8 cm, and seats with 30 cm high, lift-up backrests. Four large openings will be made in the northeast and northwest corners for the north stand.
The upper stands, built in 1936, will be preserved. The existing fixed-back seats will be replaced with new lift-up seats.

Continuity of architectural design
During the restructuring carried out by Atelier Ferret Architectures and Cardète & Huet for the 1998 World Cup, we made it a priority to preserve the concept of the arena, that continuous envelope surrounding the structure. As a result, the peripheral enclosure wall was maintained. The existing concrete roof supported by columns in the stands was replaced with a metal-textile structure and covering. The current works do not involve major changes to the exterior façade. The few modifications concern:
– The area between the forecourt and the canopy that protects spectators from the weather at the base of the façade (concession stands, restrooms, doors, access areas).
– The creation of 4 gaps in the North stand.

The new East forecourt access control will be made of concrete, aligning with the intention to create a cohesive ensemble with the existing stadium.