BIG’s €60 Million MÉCA Culture and Arts Center Just Opened in Bordeaux

The Bjarke Ingels Group–designed MÉCA opens in Bordeaux, France, with toasts, a grand tour, and a rooftop party.

Back in 2006, Alain Rousset, president of the Regional Council of Aquitaine, called for a creative hub that could host three key local institutions: ALCA (an agency for books, cinema, and audiovisuals), OARA (a live performing arts organization), and Frac Nouvelle-Aquitaine (a funder of contemporary art). Now these three organizations have a unified home: the Maison de l’Économie Créative et de la Culture en Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

Dubbed the

Bjarke Ingels calls the hollow space at the center of the building an “urban room.”

Photo by Lauren Ghinitioiu

“Artists will now have a great stage for creation, at all times of the year, for residencies of three weeks in length,” says Director of OARA Joel Brouch. “Complementary studios will allow for research and experimentation, and the artists in residence will enjoy exceptional conditions. They’ll also be paid for their projects.”

A theater is available for screenings of student projects.

A cinema is available for screenings of student films.

Photo by Lauren Ghinitioiu

On-site facilities include an exhibition hall, galleries, a cinema, production offices, and creative studios, to name a few. The grounds also feature a cafe/restaurant called CREM, a terrace, and riverfront views, all of which are available to artists in residence and the public alike.

The facade is a series of 4,800 concrete slabs interspersed with glass.

The facade is composed of 4,800 concrete slabs interspersed with glass. 

Photo by Lauren Ghinitioiu

See the full story on Dwell.com: BIG's €60 Million MÉCA Culture and Arts Center Just Opened in Bordeaux
Related stories:

  • SelgasCano’s Psychedelic Serpentine Pavilion Opens at the La Brea Tar Pits
  • You’ll Soon Be Able to Buy a Replica of Richard Neutra's Legendary Glass Penthouse
  • Airbnb Luxe Now Offers Mind-Blowing Estate Rentals for Bon Vivants

Similar Posts

  • Smart Makeover: Space-Savvy Modern Bedroom in White and Wood

    Your bedroom is a safe refuge that you can turn to after a long, hard day to rest, relax and find energy for another busy day. At least, that is what to needs to be! Revamped to meet the needs of a fast-paced urban lifestyle, Bela’s Room in Sudoeste, Brasília is a delightful 22-square meter […]

    You’re reading Smart Makeover: Space-Savvy Modern Bedroom in White and Wood, originally posted on Decoist. If you enjoyed this post, be sure to follow Decoist on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest.

  • Abraham Shapiro, AIA, Architect

    Abraham Shapiro, AIA, Architect :: Mid-Century Modern. Tucked into a cul-de-sac at the very top of the Encino hills, a stone’s throw to Mulholland and a three-minute drive to the Skirball Cultural Center, this masterfully designed and recently renovated architectural home is close to everything the City has to offer. Next door to Bel Air, Brentwood and Beverly Hills, with easy access to the 405, and just up the street from Ventura Boulevard, the location couldn’t be more convenient. Designed as his own personal residence by influential architect Abe Shapiro, onetime partner of both Bill Krisel and Herb Nadel, this historic property has the clean lines and disciplined detailing consistent with the preeminent USC School of Architecture that dominated residential design in LA in the middle part of the last century. Rebuilt from top to bottom in 2016, the result is a brand new home respectful of the original design, yet upgraded to the standards of the new millennium. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors connect the interior to the landscape, flooding the interior with natural light, together with skylights and clerestory windows. An elegant cook’s kitchen with sleek custom cabinetry and high-end appliances opens directly to the living room and dining room, ideal for entertaining. Valley views, multiple fireplaces, sculptural wine display cabinet, wide plank white oak floors, Carrara marble, porcelain tile, European hardware, designer light fixtures, swimming pool with spa, fire pit, and outdoor kitchen complete the unparalleled package of amenities.