WES ANDERSON-ESQUE SPORTS STADIUM

A French 20th century stadium that was looking worse for wear has been given a fresh look by Baíto Architectes and Atelier Pirollet Architectes. The newly updated Jean Bouissou Stadium Stand adds a modern touch to the existing structure, which was built in 1958 and is home to the ES La Ciotat football club.

Terracotta toned features across the design through brightly coloured tiles, walls and benches, contrasting the pale beige colours dominant throughout the rest of the design, with neutrally toned walls and floors as well as exposed concrete ceilings.

"The existing [stand] was dilapidated, and several structural and health issues required major work," Baíto Architectes co-founder Bastien Beguier explained. "But the building presented real architectural qualities and in particular the roof of the stands; a particularly airy concrete canopy opening onto the stadium."

As well as repairing and waterproofing the stand, Baíto Architectes and Atelier Pirollet Architectes retained a number of the structure's existing features, including a concrete canopy that opens onto the stadium. The concrete roof, which has grown to define the stadium's design, is cantilevered over the rest of the structure and has a smooth underside uninterrupted by beams.

While the roof and grandstand structure were retained, the ground floor facilities were removed to reveal the building's original structure, which the studios fitted with new locker rooms and sports facilities.

Tucked beneath the eaves of the grandstand, the interior facilities are accessed by a covered walkway which features rhythmic concrete framing that casts shadows across the ground.

Location La Ciotat, France
Architecture Baíto Architectes and Atelier Pirollet Architectes
Photography Stéphane Aboudaram