Complexe sportif Bellegrave
13 september 2019
Project: Complexe sportif Bellegrave, Pessac | France
Architect: Groupe A40 Architectes, Bordeaux | France
Fabricator & Installer: Smac, Toulouse & Bordeaux | France
Façade System: Riveted, Screwed
Year of Construction: 2018
Product: ALUCOBOND® PLUS spectra Desert Gold 921
Photos: Patrick Desvergnes
EDUCATION AND SYMBOLISM
Pessac always seems to be in the middle, between Bordeaux and the Atlantic, between ornate Louis XVIth architecture and the modernism of Corbusier’s satellite developments. Connoisseur wines here and the noise of air traffic there. Pessac residents, who originate from all over the world, are once again right at the centre. In conjunction with diverse cultural and learning landscapes, they want to combine and reconcile all these features. This explains why functional buildings at the new 6,000 m² Bellegrave sports ground in the centre of Pessac have not just targeted functionality. The aim was to build a space as a catalyst for cultural identity, generating social interaction and tolerance. Its architecture needed to be emblematic in the district and, at the same time, to respect the existing historic heritage. The architects have focused on symbolism for the new 3,615 m² sports hall which is topped with a curvilinear, folded roof in spectra Desert Gold ALUCOBOND® elements. The plain, new sports hall has been set several metres below ground level to avoid overshadowing or impairing the view of its neighbour. The roofs of Bellegrave Castle, high above the sports hall roof, are visible for miles. Architects have emphasized the hall’s interior floorplan by using bold colours by using bold colours on individual walls and flooring. This creates a better overview of the layout, special natural lighting effects and a vibrant ambience. The colour scheme is also a link to Corbusier’s Modernity. For the 1,092 spectators who can fit into the hall, it contains another striking feature, and one which is an expression of identity: high above the hall, wave like timber roof beams traverse the diverse site with maritime flair, encompassing the complexities of the construction task and its educational outreach programme. The Atlantic is a shared constant in the town, it is close by, it widens the horizon and it is open to everyone. Just the way education should be.