"We came up with images of old cinemas' pediment and tobacco dryer from the southwest of France, with their openwork natural wood façade," state the architects, who sought to challenge the idea of the multiplex — a suburban shoebox —, and instead propose an unexpected, surprising space that can be used during the day and night.
"A cinema has this unique opportunity to gather different people for a common but yet unusual journey," state Encore Hereux. "We wish to offer remarkable conditions for such a trip." The studio's research determined that projection rooms would harbour different atmospheres — from a starry night to a sunrise. Economy, consistency and precision were fundamental concerns for the architects, who developed specific interior and façade lights, and custom-made furniture in the administrative offices. The architects collaborated with Bonnefrite, an artist group who developed the building's hand-painted main sign. A strong involvement with local construction firms allowed the architects to respect construction times and budget.
Area: 2,700 square metres
Project: 12 months
Construction: 14 months
Completion: July 2012
Construction costs: € 3,500.00
Operative costs: € 4,500.00
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