Description

Near the Abbey in Cluny, this dance school emulates
the sensations of the surrounding Roman architecture:
the sculpted effects of the walls, a sense of solidity
and ruggedness, an expression of strength by combining
simple and compact volumes, a rudimentary
effect both in terms of construction and the organisation
of space.
The dance school’s architectural design was based
on these principles and impressions.
Its construction is rudimentary. Its structure comprises
two prefabricated concrete assemblies; a series of
superimposed pillars forming the load-bearing façade
and slabs directly traversing the spans.
Oak window frames add the fi nal touch to the structure.
All these elements are compact. Their dimensions
match the height or width of each level.
The interior spaces are bare rooms one on top of the
other. Their walls offer a series of alternating solid and
void formed by the structure.
This regular and stable order immediately creates a
link between the historical site and the school’s artistic
scene. Rest and movement are reversed.
The block plan results from the layout of 2 volumes,
one square and the other rectangular. The circulation
distributing these volumes is on the outside of the
buildings in the form of galvanised steel walkways,
lining the Rue des Tanneries.
An enclosure is outlined at the rear. The enclosure
wall and the Medasson stream help to defi ne this
unfi nished shape, reminiscent of a cloister.

© Patrick Berger

Designed

2001

Completed

2007