The project has been under way since the end of 2023 through a project management competition to build a new convention centre for the Rouen metropolitan area. It has now reached a new stage with the selection of the renowned Danish architectural firm BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group) as the winner of the competition and the presentation of the first exterior and interior visuals of the building. To beat its two competitors, BIG chose to make a strong architectural statement - which is its trademark - while ensuring that the complex is highly multifunctional and complies with high energy and environmental standards.
Given its location on the Lapeyre islet on the banks of the Seine, between the Kindarena sports complex and the Flaubert bridge, the building has been given the name "La Voile" for the curved shape of its roof, which is meant to evoke the sails of boats sailing on the river. This undulating roof will have the added feature of being an energy producer. The high, solid timber facades will pay homage to the timber-framed houses of the Norman capital. The halls and foyers will be bright and airy.
Events for up to 1400 participants
The technical specifications of the convention centre, which is due to open at the end of 2032 at a cost of €80m, will have a footprint of 11,500 m2 and will house a 1,000-seat auditorium for the general public, a plenary hall for 400 people, 2,500 m2 of exhibition space, 8 meeting rooms and a 1,400-seat reception area. Work is scheduled to start in 2030. This venue will be dedicated to MICE, but also to cultural events, exhibitions, concerts, shows, etc. Given the capacity of La Voile, Rouen is targeting medium-sized events for this new metropolitan facility, i.e. 1,400 people using the combination of the auditorium and its adjoining plenary hall.
