Architects: NP2F
Area: 15,700 m²
Year: 2023
Photographs: Maxime Delvaux
Sustainable Urban Integration
Blending Green Design with Urban Landscape
Situated in Bordeaux, France, the Bordeaux Brazza UCPA Sport Station, designed by NP2F, stands as a testament to sustainable architecture. The building’s concept revolves around simplicity, utilizing low-carbon concrete slabs, beams, and columns to create an eco-friendly structure. The outdoor spaces, strategically superimposed, seamlessly integrate with the urban fabric, resembling streets, city squares, and agricultural windbreaking nets that shield users from drafts.
Natural Ventilation and Illumination
Optimizing Lightness and Energy Efficiency
The architectural approach prioritizes natural ventilation, allowing the entire complex to “breathe” effortlessly. To enhance lightness and economy, built elements such as heating, air-conditioning, ventilation, and artificial lighting are minimized. This thoughtful design results in significant energy savings, with a remarkable 56% reduction in consumption (900,000 kWh/year) compared to a covered enclosure. Moreover, a substantial 63% decrease in CO2 emissions (2,270 t CO2) related to construction contributes to the building’s overall sustainability.
Sober Aesthetics and User-Centric Spaces
Functional Simplicity with User Experience in Mind
The materials and colors employed in the architecture deliberately embrace sobriety. The low-carbon PMES cement CEM3 concrete structure serves as a canvas for future users. Salient elements like the reception desk, staircases, and stands are meticulously crafted to encourage foot movement within the building, minimizing the need for lofts and turning linking spaces into distinctive areas.
A Multifaceted Sporting Haven
Cathédrale des Sports: A Unique Sporting Complex
The Bordeaux Brazza UCPA Sport Station stands as a true “Cathédrale des Sports,” hosting diverse sporting facilities across six levels. This includes a one-of-a-kind climbing complex, a racket zone featuring padel tennis and squash, a restaurant/bar/relaxation area connected to all sports, weightlifting and fitness areas, spaces dedicated to children, esports, and golfing. The roof boasts a golf practice driving range and serves as a venue for sporting events and festivals.
Panoramic Views and Regional Identity
An Architectural Landmark for Bordeaux
Open to everyone, the sport station offers spectacular views of the city center and vineyards, emphasizing its role as an integral part of the Bordeaux region’s geography. Beyond being a hub for sports, the Bordeaux Brazza UCPA Sport Station stands as a beacon of sustainable design, seamlessly integrating with the urban landscape while offering a holistic sporting experience to its users.
