Situated between land and sea, gardens and observation decks, minerals and organic elements, a new city center is emerging. A+Architecture has recently completed the reconstruction of the Agde Corner Gateway New Area. The firm also designed two main structures—the exhibition hall and the casino—both resembling white concrete pearls, symbolizing the area’s revitalization.
A broad, gently sloping promenade connects these buildings to the harbor—the heart of this seaside town originally designed by French architect Jean Le Couteur during the Racine mission. As a symbol of growth, the exhibition center has become a new landmark for the resort. Linked to the casino by a series of circular walkways, the complex offers an innovative 3D pedestrian plaza that seamlessly connects Agde’s modern seaside resort with the historic town located a few kilometers inland.
The exhibition hall spans three levels, each accessible via the winding corridors of the main structure. Its unique spatial layout allows for seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, providing easy access to all amenities, including the lobby, exhibition areas, offices, conference rooms, and an auditorium with seating for 1,200 guests. The auditorium features turquoise blue seats—the only vivid splash of color within this predominantly white complex—evoking the Mediterranean’s vibrant waves.
On the building’s rooftop lies a spacious, flat square. At the higher end, overlooking the construction site, is a panoramic room shaped to resemble a solen—a razor shell bivalve—offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape in every direction.
Meanwhile, artist Hervé di Rosa from Sète collaborated closely with A+Architecture to creatively interpret underwater themes. He designed a 2,900 square meter white metal mesh sculpture that envelops the two buildings, offering stunning views of land, sea, and sky.
Project Drawings
▲ Plan View
▲ Plan View
▲ Plan View
▲ Plan View
▲ Elevation View
▲ Sectional View
Project Information
Design Firm: A+Architecture
Address: Rond point du Bon Accueil, 34305 Le Cap d’Agde, France (BIM Architecture)
Category: Cultural Center
Building Area: 5,800 m²
Project Year: 2019
Photographers: Camille Gharbi, Benoit Wehrlé
Co-Architect: Philippe Escamez Architect
Client: City of Agde
Project Execution Manager: Arteba
Background: Crea Factory (BIM training)
Structural Engineering: Terrell
Builder: L’Echo
Equipment and Power: Celsius Environment
Earthworks, Roads, Utilities, and Electricity: Gaxieu
Water Supply, Sanitation, Roads, Utilities, and Electricity: Prima Groupe
Demolition: Ginger CEBTP
Thermal and Environmental Assessment: Celsius Environnement
Landscape Design: Agenda TER paysagistes / PMC Creation
Acoustic Design: Cabinet Vincent Hedont
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