C.desart.c.geuens.b.lamock Ea P33 Representive Image

Corentin Desart, Cedric Geuens & Benjamin Lamock

Black Layers. ULG Liège (Belgium).  

Portrait Desart Corentin
Portrait Geuens Cedric
Portrait Lamock Benjamin

The cultural center of Thiers is located in the former “Vallée desusines”. To strengthen the connection between the current cultural center and the future Knife Museum, the old hospital gardens are being transformed into a museum parc. The museum is marked by two imposing black monoliths framing the old hospital and contrasting with the landscape. The rooftops of the monoliths, accessible to the public, offer beautiful views of the valley and integrate with the existing squares in Thiers.

Both the building and the program have a heterogeneous character with different functions: the Knife Museum, temporary exhibition spaces, and housing. "Layers" consistently grouping two levels are identifiable based on their function or volume treatment. 

The third layer is called the intimate layer. Consisting of the second and third floor, it incorporates ten duplexes made of modules that form diverse housing units. The new facade is set back due to the presence of balconies and walkways.

The first layer is called the open layer. Made from the ground floor and the first floor, both having large uninterrupted spaces that are perfect for temporary exhibitions. It is extended by a monolith that requalifies the former courtyard. The creation of a technical floor at the ground level allows for versatile activities and permeability to the outside.

The second layer, or dark layer, ischaracterized by vaultsandregroupsof the lower basement and the basement. It houses the Knife Museum. The second monolith fills the English courtyard and part of the garden, enveloping the layer. This volume, occasionally notched by a light slit, guides the visitoracross a series of modular elements that highlights the knifes through repetition.

The existing building is preserved, reinterpreted by the layers, and highlighted by the monoliths. New plazas offer connections to the existing context.

 



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