Inauguration of FRAC Dunkerque on 16 November 2013.
Architects Lacaton & Vassal have a habit of giving their clients more than they expect from a building. They also pursued this strategy with the new regional museum of contemporary art (FRAC) in Dunkirk.
Photo: © Philippe Ruault
To achieve their goal, the project creates a double of the halle, of the same dimension, attached to the existing building, on the side which faces the sea, and which contains the program of the FRAC. The new building juxtaposes delicately without competing nor fading.
Photo: © Philippe Ruault
With the new regional museum of contemporary art (FRAC) in Dunkirk, architects Lacaton & Vassal have created a new cultural and social hub on the edge of the sea. The building incorporates the vast volume of the former AP2 dockyard hall, with all its potential for new and unexpected uses.
Photo: © Philippe Ruault
Whereas its permeable outer skin (ETFE) puts users in close contact with the climate outside, its generous yet flexible internal spaces foster social encounter and form an impressive setting for the works of art on display.
Photo: © Philippe Ruault
The huge industrial building, with its galvanized steel and reinforced concrete skeleton, appears as if it had been stranded on the outskirts of a new residential district. When the museum opened in 2013, the break between the FRAC and the AP2 hall, and the rest of the urban renewal district was particularly noticeable.
Photo: © Philippe Ruault
In the following years, however, the cultural institution gradually coalesced with the urban landscape and new uses for the building eventually became established.
About the Author:
Bruno Dursin – Managing Director at Believe in Steel. Bruno has more than 30 years of experience in promoting steel & steel solutions. His clients benefit from his extensive network within the building industry.
