data architectes opens casino du lac to its surrounding landscape

data architectes opens casino du lac to its surrounding landscape
all images courtesy of data architectes

casinos tend to promote the image of a reclusive world, devoid of natural light and closed in on themselves, french studio data architectes has sought to challenge this notion in the ‘casino du lac’ project. the building operates as a multi-leisure center, where gambling is not the only program, transforming the standard typology of such a place.

seeking to preserve and respect the surrounding landscape and identity of the site, the architects conceived a horizontal volume that incorporates natural materials. the project accommodates two main functional entities, both public facilities and other private ones that are needed for the casino’s operation. the separate activities are organized into two longitudinal masses that partly intersect and overlap one another.

view from the pedestrian walkway

the lower mass consists of a glass volume and stained concrete embedded into the gentle slope of the land. this section contains the casino’s operation facilities such as offices, equipment rooms, kitchens and reserves. a service area provides easy access for delivery vehicles and cash transport vans arriving via a road specifically used by the casino. the lower court space on the rue du lac side welcomes and guides visitors towards the entrance and up the vertical circulation to the upper level.

the building is raised on stilts to allow the continuity of the landscape

the upper unit, which contains the public facilities, partially rests on the lower level and features a delicate composition of wooden slates that bend into articulate the spaces adjacent to it; the alley, square and rue du lac. the entrance lobby serves as the central meeting point of the casino, helping to limit circulation and control pedestrian flow. the structure is surrounded by glazed windows, enclosed game rooms, dining and animation areas and is accessible from the alley via a wide walkway and from the square with a footbridge, while an elevator provides direct access to the lobby from the lower forecourt.

the facade is made using glulam douglas-fir wood

view showing the wooden structure intersecting with the concrete volume

view from the offices

the terraces with lake view

exterior passageway

the program is expressed using wood cladding

overview of the lac du der

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