Architects: Atelier Féret & Frechon Architectes
Location: Louviers, France
Area: 1346 m²
Year: 2019
Photographs: Antoine Mercusot
Revitalizing Neighborhood Through Sportive Infrastructure
Overview:
Nestled in the heart of Louviers, France, the Maison des Sports and Associations stands as a testament to community well-being. Crafted by Atelier Féret & Frechon Architectes, this sports facility not only caters to municipal associations but also serves as a hub for various recreational activities. The endeavor, completed in 2019, aimed to infuse life into the Red House neighborhood, contributing to the overall urban revitalization efforts.
Strategic Location and Design
Integration with Existing Complex:
The Maison des Sports is strategically positioned at the southeast end of an established sports complex, bordered by the Mail Carrington, a long-planted promenade. The architects prioritized its visibility, ensuring a prominent presence on the Eastside, adjacent to the school and the multimodal exchange hub. The deliberate positioning aligns with the comprehensive neighborhood restructuring plan.
Sustainable Development and Design Challenge:
In alignment with a sustainable development approach, the City aspired for the BEPOS label (Positive Energy Building) for the new facility. The architectural and technical challenge lay in meeting urban and high-performance criteria while considering the climatic aspects of the site. The square plan of 36mx36m was adopted to optimize daylight exposure and views for each space, emphasizing control over interior atmospheres.
Compact Design for Green Preservation
Preserving Green Spaces:
The compact arrangement of the Maison des Sports retains the lush, tree-lined surroundings previously occupied by a swimming pool. Through thoughtful cuts, each section of the facility receives ample air clearance tailored to its purpose. This design choice facilitates the integration of technical rooms with architectural volumes, allowing for the orientation of a photovoltaic field that harnesses sunlight without being shadowed by the mall’s trees.
Urban Facades:
The facility boasts two distinctive urban facades. The southern face, anchored by the covered hall’s volume, aligns gracefully under the mall’s trees. In contrast, the eastern facade, visible from the future multimodal hub, introduces a dynamic interplay of volumes rising above a graphic sign, offering a compelling visual spectacle.
A Beacon of Sustainable Sport Architecture
Community Impact:
The Maison des Sports not only fulfills its role as a sports hub but also stands as an architectural beacon promoting sustainability and community wellness. Its deliberate integration with the existing sports complex and the careful consideration of environmental factors position it as a symbol of thoughtful urban development, contributing to the enhancement of the Red House neighborhood in Louviers.
