Rehabilitation and extension of the "Hippodrome de la Baie" racecourse

NOMADE architects recently delivered the project for rehabilitation and extension of the Hippodrome de la Baie racecourse in Yffiniac, a few kilometres from the downtown Saint-Brieuc, in Brittany (FRANCE).

This is a two-fold challenge, intended on one hand to improve public reception conditions during equestrian events, and on the other, to provide a function room for group events. NOMADE architects developed a unique context-sensitive yet singular design to renovate this structure, establishing a dynamic dialogue between the old and the new.

Alternating between continuity with and divergence from the existing design, the modules on stilts play with this duality: opacity and transparency, shadows and light, sky and land. The facade consists on a filter that alternates clear and opaque surfaces, creating several sequences. This filter consists of aluminium cladding placed against the primary structure of the building. It covers the façades with a greater or lesser density, according to the need to open up or obscure the view or provide protection from the sun. A naturalistic pattern increases the architectural expressiveness, stimulating the imagination and playing with the concept of a double skin.

In terms of structure, NOMADE sought to design an extension that respects the structure and operation of the existing covered hall. The project limits its overall impact and establishes a true architectural interaction with the existing building through a steadfastly unique stance A concrete monolith pierced by random windows connects the extension to the glass gable end of the existing building. The extension chooses to mark a strong contrast with the existing structure through its design and materials, yet respects the longitudinal layout naturally imposed by the racetrack.

The combined use of metal and concrete offers considerable latitude to architectural creation. This is why the modules have a metal or mixed structure mounted on concrete-filled metal posts

Living, relaxation and professional areas are generously opened on the tracks, whereas the technical areas concentrate in the back. The panoramic restaurant comes to crown the building to offer a pleasant space with a unique view for the races.