The city of Le Havre welcomes us into a poignant atmosphere, rich with compelling stories and the rhythm of waves. This new cultural, collaborative, and sports facility stands as a flagship project within the Danton district, which is currently undergoing revitalization. It aligns with Le Havre’s urban policy by actively engaging residents in the planning process to better meet their needs and expectations.
The design aims for a bold and recognizable structure, serving as a unified “cornerstone” that generously opens to the public and extends the surrounding public space. The vision is to create a welcoming and friendly building that embraces ordinary yet extraordinary moments—where people gather in a spirit of community and camaraderie.
This project integrates into a simple urban plan that completes the framework of a new public square designed for the local community. Its facade aligns harmoniously with the neighboring streets, emphasizing the shape of a large communal space that blends a spacious mineral mall with an intimate garden. The building draws inspiration from the classic brick warehouses that characterize the surrounding docks.
The urban landscape, featuring double-pitched roofs, is deeply connected to Le Havre’s heritage, becoming a familiar symbol of joy and community. This project replicates these iconic silhouettes to preserve their almost nostalgic symbolism, reflecting a prosperous and peaceful era. At the same time, it maximizes functional space, paying homage to the simple beauty of these powerful volumes.
This contemporary building firmly anchors itself as a ground-level icon, thoughtfully reconfigured to accommodate new functions. Its volume is elevated, allowing public space to flow into the heart of the development. The materials reflect the heritage through matte clay bricks, while surfaces of brushed stainless steel inject vitality and modernity. The architecture embodies a “transparent volume,” metaphorically showcasing the activities within.
The project presents two distinct identities: a strong, timeless urban presence and a sensitive landscape setting inspired by its environment, especially the picturesque reflections in the public gardens.
Inside, the building’s design complements its exterior, featuring warm and inviting tones. It embraces a bright theme, with generous natural light filling the flowing spaces, creating an almost ethereal, mist-like effect. Wood elements foster a tranquil ambiance, enhancing the sense of well-being through their natural connection to living organisms. A standout feature is the large sports hall, topped with an all-wood suspended dome that follows a complex geometric shape.
Project Drawings
△ Texture Diagram
△ General Layout Plan
△ First Floor Plan
△ Second Floor Plan
△ Plan View
△ Third Floor Plan
△ Section Diagram
Project Information
Architectural Design: K Architects Sigwalt Herman
Area: 4,800 square meters
Project Year: 2021
Photographer: Sophie Oddo
Suppliers: Ad Lucem Choc, Aperam, GUBI, HAY, Kartell, LIGNOTREND, Lintex
Project Architect: Camille Saint Paul
Structural Engineer: AIA LIFE DESIGNERS
Acoustic Consultant: ITAC
Location: Le Havre, France
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