The intention to position the new concert hall in Paris’ La Villette was an inspiring choice: it provides an opportunity combine high artistic ambition with a popular public space. It also provides an opportunity to enliven and invest in the periphery of the city.

By treating the complete site as one reflective plaza, its somewhat hidden position within La Villette is liberated. By keeping a continuous surface material and treatment accross the public plaza and building itself, the composition becomes a cohesive whole. The plaza allows the public to climb up the building, in the name of equality, and to preserve the public space the building is built on. The plaza becomes a public space that is completely accessible, to all people, at all times. A monument to the public itself, remembered through use, rather than monumentality. It becomes a park within a park, and adds to the diverse collection of different gardens and elements that make up La Villette.

The size requirements for the hall lead to a highly compact volume with many balconies to accommodate the audience. The balconies are connected with catwalks leading to the windows that connect to the foyers and other functions. They are accentuated by the garde-de-corps, or railings, that can be illuminated with texts and messages, adapted the atmosphere to suit the performance.