hamonic + masson reconstructs reims departmental archives in france
the building has been transformed into a contemporary research hub of history and a regional information center, while expanding the linear archival storage space from 7km to 18km.
hamonic + masson reconstructs reims departmental archives in france
photo © sergio grazia
all images courtesy of hamonic + masson & associés
considering the size and the impact on the site in france, hamonic + masson & associés wanted their project for the reims archives to be read in several ways: to tell different tales depending on distance or nearness to the building, and to allow the discovery of many different elements and feelings as one navigates through its spaces.
exterior pathway along the façade
photo © sergio grazia
street view
photo © sergio grazia
the construction is characterized by natural materials
photo © sergio grazia
located on a gentle slope, the facility stands in such a manner that does not spoil or overload the setting. from the entrance, the architecture demonstrates the programmatic organization that is visible through the transparent patio. once inside, the reception acts as an intermediary area, before opening into the inner garden. visitors then take a path that gradually gives way to the access ramp.
interior lounge
photo © sergio grazia
functional organization
photo © sergio grazia
transparency of the patio area
photo © sergio grazia
the effect of time will reveal the charm of the natural, raw materials (glass, metal and golden-brown varnished concrete.) with their richness, textures and vibrations, these industrial elements gain in poetry. it is an aesthetic refinement, which, if applied with care, gives the archives consistency and identity.
the entrance mimics the exterior of the building
photo © sergio grazia
white interior space
photo © sergio grazia
detail of the perforated exterior
photo © sergio grazia
for a consistent color palette, the architects have used brown varnished concrete
photo © sergio grazia
project info:
program: reconstruction of the marne regional archives annex
location: 129, avenue de l’yser, reims, france
competition won: 2008
completed: 2014
client: conseil général de la marne
architecture team: hamonic + masson & associés
structural engineer: SIBAT
photographer: sergio grazia
cost: 6,6 M€ HT.
surface: 5,145 m2
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