The Co’met project seamlessly combines three key functions into a striking architectural statement: a sports arena, conference center, and exhibition space. These elements converge in a spectacular design along the southern entrance leading into Orléans, France. This expansive multifunctional complex not only serves as a versatile venue but also redefines Orléans’ image as the metropolitan gateway through its unique, continuous layout.
The CO’Met Arena, serving as an event and conference center, boasts a lightweight and transparent volume that challenges the traditional bulky design of large-scale venues. Its flowing, gentle form draws inspiration from the subtle ambiance of the Loire River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The facade’s undulating vertical lines wrap around the arena and extend seamlessly to the surrounding facilities, responding dynamically to changes in light and sky colors. This creates a “floating” transparent outer layer that softly outlines the building’s shape while adding spatial depth, inviting visitors to continuously rediscover the structure beyond initial impressions.
At night, Co’met transforms under subtle lighting, revealing a fresh and captivating image. At the main entrance, a large outdoor canopy connects the venue to the city’s “vestibule” beside the tram track, while preserving the native Bois des Montées forest within the site. This thoughtful integration places nature at the heart of the visitor experience, fostering a meaningful dialogue between the landscape and urban environment.
This project is a key part of an ambitious sustainable development plan. In terms of energy efficiency, Co’met is currently the most energy-efficient sports facility in France, powered entirely by geothermal energy. The facade design emphasizes “lightness,” minimizing material usage to further promote sustainability.
Inside, the exposed concrete structure remains undecorated, creating a serene and minimalist atmosphere that aligns with the venue’s active function while reducing resource consumption. Signage is directly applied onto the concrete walls, seamlessly integrating with the architectural design.
The architects recognize that the best way to tackle climate challenges in architecture is through maximizing the building’s usability over time. Co’met is designed as a multi-functional venue, extending its usability and enhancing facility efficiency.
The stadium accommodates 10,000 seats with a modular design, making it adaptable for a wide range of cultural and sporting events. The conference center directly extends from the sports arena and exhibition hall, uniting nearly all project spaces into one continuous venue that can operate year-round.
Project Drawings
△ General Layout Plan
△ Overall Diagram
△ Second Floor Plan
△ Third Floor Plan
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Section Diagram
△ Functional Zoning Diagram
Project Information
Architects: Chaix & Morel et Associés, Ferrier Marchetti Studio, Populus
Area: 52,000 m²
Project Year: 2023
Photographer: Luc Boelgy
Lead Architect: Ferrier Marchetti Studio
Conference and Exhibition Center Architect: Chaix & Morel Associés
Sports Center Design: Populus
Building Functions:
- A multifunctional sports and performance venue with over 10,000 seats, capable of hosting international competitions in basketball, volleyball, handball, tennis, badminton, boxing, hockey, gymnastics, and more, in partnership with Orléans Loiret Basket Club Gymnasium.
- Conference center equipped with a 1,000-seat hall, committee meeting rooms, restaurants, and terraces.
- Exhibition center.
Gymnasium Area: 23,000 m²
Conference Center Area: 20,000 m²
Exhibition Center Area: 9,000 m²
Outdoor Spaces (courtyards, halls, parking, etc.): 20 hectares
Landscape Design: Ter
Floodlight Design: BOA
Acoustic Consultant: Peutz
Location: Orléans, France
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