A Fusion of Heritage and Modernity
The city of Le Havre is steeped in history, and the iconic concrete arch, constructed in 1947, has stood as a sentinel against the harsh coastal weather for decades. Initially built as a protective structure following a major storm in 1946, the arch spans 270 meters in length and 21.5 meters in height, with its original purpose being to shield the city’s docks and infrastructure from wind damage. Today, this historical monument represents resilience, and our project aims to maintain that legacy by enhancing its form while respecting its purpose.
Award Winning Architectural Project
In developing this proposal, we have committed to preserving the visual integrity and materiality of the original concrete arch. The design does not alter the appearance or texture of the existing structure but instead builds upon it with a lightweight, flexible steel-and-glass cylindrical structure that floats above the arch. This new addition reimagines the arch as a museum space that seamlessly integrates modern architectural language with the industrial history of the site.
Architectural Concept and Cultural Reflection
The design of the museum takes direct inspiration from the city’s cultural and architectural identity, which has been shaped by its relationship with industry and the sea. Notably, many of the city’s prominent structures—including its church towers, factory smokestacks, and port landmarks—feature cylindrical forms. Even the culinary heritage of Le Havre, with dishes such as the Andouille de Vire, reflects this cylindrical identity. Through this project, we have embraced these forms as a symbol of unity between the past and present, allowing the cylindrical shape to be a recurring motif throughout the museum’s architecture.
The project emphasizes the fluidity of movement within the space. The cylindrical museum consists of three levels, each connected by a spiral circulation path, allowing visitors to experience the art exhibits and the panoramic views of the city and sea. The movement between these levels mimics the natural curves and flows of the city’s industrial structures, while also promoting seamless interaction between the different functions of the building, including museum galleries, art installations, and viewing decks.
A Contemporary Space with Respect for Tradition
In preserving the historical significance of the site, the landscape design is intentionally minimalistic, allowing the architecture to take center stage. This understated approach ensures that the museum harmonizes with its environment, reinforcing the coastal identity of Le Havre while framing the original arch as a testament to the city’s enduring spirit. The landscape design reflects a careful balance between function and simplicity, with subtle green areas and pathways that complement the larger urban context of the port.
In summary, “The Art Pipe” project seeks to create a dynamic space for cultural exchange, where the industrial past meets modern creativity. The transparent and reflective surfaces of the new structure emphasize the dialogue between the old and the new, ensuring that the original concrete arch retains its dominant presence, both visually and symbolically. By maintaining the material authenticity of the arch and introducing a lightweight addition that elevates its purpose, this project embodies a forward-looking vision while remaining deeply rooted in the heritage of Le Havre.
Cylindrical Heritage of the City
Through an analysis of map imagery and geographic survey layers, it was discovered that the city’s architectural landscape prominently features cylindrical and tubular forms. This architectural characteristic has become a defining element of the city’s identity, reflecting its historical and cultural evolution. Our design embraces this cylindrical motif, integrating it as a central theme in the conceptual framework of the project, thereby creating a harmonious dialogue with the existing urban fabric
Analyzing Le Havre’s Architectural Identity
Through a comprehensive analysis of key architectural elements in Le Havre, including churches, factory towers, port structures, and even the city’s iconic port flag, a consistent cylindrical motif emerged. This analysis reveals that the cylindrical form is not just a recurring feature, but a defining characteristic of Le Havre’s architectural identity. Our project embraces and reflects this cylindrical heritage, creating a dialogue between the city’s past and its future.
The Nautilus Pipe: A Dialogue Between Heritage and Innovation
Conceptual Overview: The Nautilus Pipe is a visionary architectural project that seeks to blend Le Havre’s rich cylindrical architectural heritage with a modern, innovative design approach. Drawing inspiration from the city’s iconic structures—such as churches, factory towers, and port elements—the project reinterprets these cylindrical forms into a contemporary, functional space that resonates with the urban fabric of Le Havre.
Design Elements: The design features a striking cylindrical structure that serves as the central element of the project. This structure, with its spiral form, symbolizes continuity and connection, echoing the historical and cultural significance of cylindrical shapes in the city’s architecture. The Nautilus Pipe is composed of three distinct levels, each with its own purpose, creating a dynamic flow between the spaces.
- Ground Level: A public gathering space that houses exhibitions and social areas, allowing visitors to engage with the city’s history in an interactive environment.
- Mezzanine Level: This level is dedicated to panoramic viewpoints and relaxation areas, offering stunning views of the surrounding urban landscape through the transparent sections of the spiral.
- Upper Level: A multi-functional space designed to accommodate various activities such as events, workshops, and cultural performances. The flexible design allows for seamless transitions between different uses, ensuring the space remains relevant and adaptable.
Structural Innovation: The Nautilus Pipe is constructed using a combination of advanced materials such as reinforced steel and glass, which provide both stability and transparency. The spiral roof design allows natural light to penetrate the space, creating a vibrant and airy atmosphere. The structure is anchored by a robust concrete base that integrates seamlessly with the existing cylindrical elements of Le Havre’s architecture.
Architectural Identity: The project not only respects the existing urban context but also enhances it by introducing a new architectural icon to Le Havre’s skyline. The use of cylindrical forms is a deliberate nod to the city’s past, while the modern interpretation of these shapes positions The Nautilus Pipe as a symbol of innovation and forward-thinking design.