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Dizzy, France

The project for the renovation and expansion of the socio-cultural and sports centre in Dizy brings together two distinct facilities intended to coexist in harmonious emulation while also operating independently.

The solution proposed for the changing rooms transforms the existing structure housing the former multi-purpose gym with the construction of new, partitioned spaces inside. The portion of the project devoted to the new socio-cultural centre and the reception area for its users is to be situated within a separate new building.

This addition offers an elongated space with an open gable roof, its two sloping sides extending far beyond the outer walls to provide ample overhangs, thus contrasting with the monolithic space of the existing building.

On the east side, a rich spatial dialogue emerges from the joining of the two structures. Their inter- connection with the creation of a porch indicates the site’s openness in a clear manner. It invites the site’s users to gain access to all of the facilities and functions like an interior thoroughfare leading directly to the adjoining football pitches. On the west side, the building presents a long facade constructed in dialogue with the surrounding landscape and the hillsides.

The entire project features uniform plaster facades broken up by large window openings, with a tiered base made of colored concrete. The latter traces the periphery of all the buildings, unifying the structures and bringing to mind spectator stands, thus reinforcing the awareness of their associated outdoor spaces. It provides a generous seating area on the courtyard and porch sides, and an ideal vantage point opposite the football pitches.

The project aims not only to meet the expectations for the site, but also to exceed them by serving as an effective community-building tool, open to varying uses and offering a clean slate so that local residents can make it their own.