Location: Aurillac, France.

Architect: Brisac Gonzalez.

The Aurillac Congress Centre is a new venue for theatre, concerts, fairs, and sports events in Aurillac, France. The building was designed by Brisac Gonzalez and other architects, and it is a recognizable object with three ribbons of concrete that vary in height and texture. The building contains retractable seating and a demountable stage for versatility, and it can accommodate up to 4500 people during performances. The building is essentially a chamber for ephemeral events and is never permanently inhabited. The upper ribbon is made of prefabricated concrete panels with a regular grid of glass bricks that produce glimmering effects and dramatic shadows during the day. In the evening, the building awakens as the Fresnel lens-like surfaces of the glass bricks amplify the intensity of the colored lighting scheme, producing a glittering facade. The lower ribbon is six-meter high and made of in situ concrete, defining the entry area and loading dock. The building is meant to be seen from afar, like stage scenery or a flamboyant costume. The majority of details are simple, and the building is a resilient structure that requires little maintenance. Within the hall, articulated lorries can drive inside, delivering performance and catering equipment or trade shows displays. At the same time, the assembly or disassembly of stage and retractable seating can occur.

Photo credit: Brisac Gonzalez Architects.