Architecture studios Baíto Architectes and Atelier Pirollet Architectes have refreshed a dilapidated 20th-century stadium in La Ciotat, France, repairing the stand and adding a modernised entrance.
Named Jean Bouissou Stadium Stand, the newly updated grandstand adds a modern touch to the existing structure, which was built in 1958 and is home to the ES La Ciotat football club.
Baíto Architectes and Atelier Pirollet Architectes restored and updated the Jean Bouissou Stadium Stand
"The existing [stand] was dilapidated, and several structural and health issues required major work," Baíto Architectes co-founder Bastien Beguier told Dezeen.
"But the building presented real architectural qualities and in particular the roof of the stands; a particularly airy concrete canopy opening onto the stadium." The grandstand was originally built in 1958
Prior to the renovation, which was initiated by the local city council, the stand featured an arrangement of painted concrete posts and beams supporting 900 seats.
Beneath the sloped seating areas, changing rooms and services facilities were enclosed within a network of concrete walls. Despite its relatively modern design, the stadium stand showed signs of ageing and was poorly waterproofed.
The studios added a monolithic concrete entrance
As well as repairing and waterproofing the stand, Baíto Architectes and Atelier Pirollet Architectes retained a number of the structure's existing features, including a concrete ca...