Grandstand at Stade Bouissou
The grandstand, designed in 1958 by architect Robert Henri Provin, features a framework of painted concrete posts and beams, supporting 900 seating places and covering changing rooms and technical facilities under the eaves. The concrete roof, forming an airy canopy, is a prominent feature of the building. Cantilevered with a smooth underside and upturned beams, it fully opens onto the sports field. The building, characterized by its modern design, faced issues of aging including waterproofing, energy consumption, and functionality.
The rehabilitation program initiated by the La Ciotat city council aimed to restore the grandstands to ensure the building's waterproofing, followed by reconfiguring the adjacent facilities. This project prompted a radical rethink, transcending constraints to offer a renewed image for the facility with programmatic and energy optimization. The grandstand and its roof were preserved, while the ground floor was completely emptied to reveal the original structure of the building.
New locker rooms and sports facilities were housed in independent volumes tucked beneath the grandstand's eaves and accessed via a protected walkway. This approach minimizes the spaces needing heating and ventilation, while providing thermal insulation through the grandstand's roof. Improved flow management and enhanced accessibility to the grandstands have enhanced the building's image.
The entrance was enhanced with a feature combining an elevator and monumental staircase, creating an extension linked by a footbridge to the grandstand, housing additional public facilities.
The choice of concrete plankettes for the project significantly reinforces the distinctive volume of the extension. This artisanal approach enhances the building's aesthetic while preserving its raw and authentic character. Furthermore, concrete plankettes ensure enhanced durability against weather conditions and develop a natural patina over time, ensuring the longevity of the structure amidst environmental challenges. This blend of structural solidity and aesthetic refinement underscores a deep commitment to architectural quality and integrity, meeting contemporary standards of sustainability.
The revitalized functionality and usage confer a renewed stature to the existing facility, marked by a strong architectural expression.
