Act 1: stage entrance
Vincent Barué (FR)
Etienne Bourdais (FR)
Nicolas Boutet (FR)
architects
Europan 10 Dunkerque
winner
Amidst Dunkerque’s big restructuring programmes, Pier 1 is the fast changing point at which several urban and industrial landscapes intersect. The “Act 1” project separates the pier from its area to give it an island identity, reinforcing the presence of water and its connection with Dunkerque. A “lower layer” is created by refurbishing the identifying components of Pier 1 and removing a few less significant buildings. The “upper layer” is a mobile roof made of ETFE cushions. Vertical extensions – called “plugs” – are introduced into this industrial heritage structure. They are light facilities designed for artistic activity and lifestyles. Visible from the town centre, this project creates a stage enlivened by many communicating and playful elements, which give the site vitality.
This project is connected to the following themes
Mobility - Urban Generator
Here, mobility is taken in its literal sense. The site becomes a theatre of mobile architectures, which create a dynamic space and act as scenic elements that bring the former docks back to life.
Shared spaces - Programmatic patchwork
In this project, the port is regenerated through the introduction of spectacular event-programmes, visible from the city.