patterned repurposed timber panels clad grande dune du pilat visitor center's huts in france

AVA meticulously restores Grande Dune du Pilat visitor center

The refurbishment of the Grande Dune du Pilat visitor center aligns with its new Grand Site de France status, aiming to enhance visitor experience while preserving the landscape and architectural heritage of this protected site. The project by Aldebert Verdier Architectes / AVA focused on improving accessibility and visitor flow, respecting the existing huts and extensions.

The design team prioritized the use of existing and bio-sourced materials, integrating local resources to ensure a natural fit within the environment. The Dune du Pilat, a powerful yet fragile natural monument, demanded high standards for conservation and public reception, aligning with sustainable development principles.

The restoration project aimed to upgrade existing huts and develop administrative, reception, educational, and commercial functions. Improvements also included better visitor flow and enhanced accessibility for persons with reduced mobility (PRM). The project sought minimal disturbance to the surroundings, preserving the harmony of the natural monument.

all images by Agnès Clotis

revitalization introduces a modern, sustainable design approach

Key design strategies followed by Aldebert Verdier Architectes / AVA involved understanding and reusing the existing structures, and proposing extensions that harmonize with the current architecture. The relationship between exterior and interior spaces was strengthened through new passages within the former structures. The redesigned village is now organized around a network of squares, connected by uniform paving, and featuring boutiques housed in the old wooden buildings.

The use of wood, a primary material in the existing huts, was continued, with materials from demolished huts repurposed. Additionally, local and bio-sourced materials such as compressed raw earth walls and innovative materials like concrete made from oyster shells from the Bay of Arcachon were incorporated into the project.

uniform wooden paving connects the squares between the huts, dotted with boutiques housed in old buildings

bio-sourced materials were used, including compressed raw earth walls and concrete made from oyster shells

key design strategies involved reusing existing structures and proposing harmonious extensions

the redesigned village by Aldebert Verdier Architectes / AVA  is organized around a network of squares

existing and bio-sourced materials were prioritized to ensure a natural fit within the environment

the restoration aimed to upgrade existing huts, improving visitor flow and enhancing accessibility

project info:

name: Refurbishment of the Grande Dune du Pilat visitor center
architect: Aldebert Verdier Architectes / AVA | @ava_architectes

location: Grande Dune du Pilat, France

photography: Agnès Clotis | @agnesclotis

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom