dominique perrault: new longchamp racecourse

'new longchamp horse racecourse' by dominique perrault architecture in paris, france
all images courtesy dominique perrault architecture
image © DPA / adagp


paris-based architect dominique perrault has won first place in the international design competition
for the redevelopment of the 'new longchamp horse racecourse' in paris, france. observing the wide range
of buildings currently present on the historical racetrack, the design seeks to highlight the different
architecture elements that contribute to the identity of longchamp by an integration and transformation
of the surrounding landscape.



rendered aerial view
image © DPA / adagp


establishing a spinal column to the circulation of the project, 'les planches' is a large wooden
walkway that connects the north end of the racecourse with the south. the new topography
encourages the spaces' opening, their permeability with the landscape and a clear and instinctual
circulation for the general public. the routes are lined by five meter high stainless steel mesh
that acts as a shelter from the wind and the sun.



view of the new stables from 'les planches'
image © DPA / adagp


conceived as a structure with no front and no back, the grand stands is read as a series of
stacked plates that have been shifted to create a soft overhang effect from the west to the east.
the form directs the stands closer towards the finish line while a balcony is generated on
the opposite side. a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and raceway is provided
from every level.

the redevelopment is due to start in october 2013 and has a projected completion date of late 2015. 



from the forecourt on the main path
image © DPA / adagp



view of the presentation circle from the new grandstands
image © DPA / adagp



gardens and the reception pavilion
image © DPA / adagp



view of tracks from grandstands
image © DPA / adagp



interior view of panoramic restaurant
image © DPA / adagp



image © DPA / adagp



image © DPA / adagp



rendered site plan
image © DPA / adagp



schematic diagram of viewing stands
image © DPA / adagp



exploded axonometric of programs and functions
image © DPA / adagp


project info:

site area: 630,000 m2
built area: 23, 603 m2
estimated beginning of construction: september 2013
estimated construction period: 2 years