A versatile community hub in Bordeaux inspired by market halls

The E76 Community Activity Facility, nestled in Bordeaux's Bassins à Flots district, stands as a testament to the evolving urban landscape. Drawing inspiration from the archetypal market halls that once graced town centers, this building is designed to be open, welcoming, and versatile. Organized over two levels, the facility features a ground-floor nave with a central tiered seating structure that defines the reception and kitchen areas. This space can seamlessly extend into the outdoors through large sectional doors, creating a fluid connection between the interior and the public peristyle.

On the upper floor, a continuous ring-shaped balcony offers a vantage point over the central void, housing activity rooms and offices. The innovative reuse of Polonceau-type steel trusses, salvaged from a nearby demolition site, underscores the project's commitment to sustainability and the celebration of Bordeaux's industrial heritage. The design employs simple construction systems, using materials in their raw state for maximum efficiency. Concrete, timber, metal, and glass come together to create a structure that is both functional and aesthetically striking.

• Ground-floor nave with central tiered seating

• Upper floor with ring-shaped balcony and activity rooms

• Reuse of Polonceau-type steel trusses

• Natural ventilation and rainwater collection systems

• Integration of gardens as public and private spaces