vertical extension

The site of the Manufacture des Œillets has undergone a gradual transformation since 1894 linked to industrial progress and changes in use. The Ivry Théâtre des Quartiers project is part of a process of continuity, without breaking with the industrial identity of the place and the evolving nature of the site. The program is part of this transformation and provides the opportunity to enhance the architectural heritage by restoring a balance in its composition.

In order to meet the expectations of flexibility while maintaining the spatial qualities of the large hall, a vertical volume is built in extension. This radical decision ensures the optimal functioning of the auditorium, preserves the identity of the hall and recomposes a stable whole on the scale of the site. It beckons in the city by affirming a cultural and artistic identity. Its verticality results from a clear strategy: inserting the transformable room in the north wing, preserving the integrity of the central hall, preserving the volume of the south wing (Halle des Œillets), by bringing together logistics in the extension. and the studio.

structures preserved

The central hall keeps its primary purpose as an entrance and distribution space; the large glass roof characterizes this vertical volume in which a system of stairs, walkways and metal mezzanines is deployed.

The Halle des Œillets, a place of life and conviviality, retains its raw volume. The large, versatile void becomes a center of exchange between visitors, users, artistic and technical teams. It is a totally flexible and modular place, open to several types of uses: readings and debates, ephemeral shows, bar / cafeteria, performances and artistic installations, exhibitions …

In the two halls, which original structures have been completely preserved, the space is simply punctuated by a few volumes and pieces of wooden furniture left as “found objects”. One part is fixed – reception desk, office, changing rooms, bar, sanitary facilities – and the other mobile and modular – sales and bookstore area, cafeteria furniture, signboards. A large window opens up a perspective between the central hall, the Halle des Œillets and the control room of the transformable room: a sort of theater within the theater.

maximized useful depth

The large transformable room fits like a technical box in the north wing. In order to preserve the existing structure as much as possible and optimize the sceno-technical volume, the project offsets the room: on the forecourt side, the mezzanine retains its current depth, while on the opposite side the depth is reduced by 2/3. This arrangement guarantees a useful depth to the spaces along the facade and a constant foot traffic around the periphery of the room. The backstage, fits into the extension, extends the stage space and has its own grill. This continuity, which provides additional depth to the room, increases the possibilities in terms of sceno-technical typologies.

The extension houses, in addition to the backstage, the technical program necessary for the operation of the transformable hall – transit and logistics. On the last level, the rehearsal room is visible from the forecourt through a large bay window open to the south-east, this loggia offers an outdoor space for relaxation to the users of this workspace.

PROJECT TEAM

MANAGEMENT TEAM
Architect: ANMA
Economy: Voxoa
HQE: Otelio
Structure, fluids: OTE
Acoustic: Peutz& Associés
Staging: Architecture & Technique

COMPETITION
Valérie Dubois
Alice Perugini
Romain Brochard
Julien Charmion-Henry
Chloé Marchal

TECHNICAL SHEET

STATUS Competition and practicalities

COMMISSIONED BY Ville d’Ivry-sur-Seine

YEAR 2012

SURFACE 4 850 m² SU

COST 11,8 M€ HT

VISUALIZATION Charles Wallon

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Agathe Desombre

SEE MORE
Antony, Des Vagues Theater
Saint-Dizier, Les Fuseaux
Tours, Centre for Dramatic Art