The Paris Longchamp Racecourse, redesigned by Dominique Perrault, integrates historical elements with contemporary needs. Situated in the Bois de Boulogne, the project modernizes the site while respecting its cultural and natural heritage. With a focus on fluid design, heritage preservation, and sustainability, the racecourse highlights architecture that balances functionality and environmental sensitivity.
Paris Longchamp Racecourse Technical Information
- Architects: Dominique Perrault Architecte
- Location: 2, Route des Tribunes, 75116, Paris, France
- Site Area: 63 hectares
- Project Year: 2011 – 2018
- Photographs: © Michel Denancé, © Tiago Madeira
The architecture of the stand is in motion, like a galloping horse. A slight overhang orients the interplay of superimposed stands toward the finish line. But this gap on the racecourse side creates stands that overlook the course, while on the side of the parade ring, a balcony stand is formed.
– Dominique Perrault Architects
Paris Longchamp Racecourse Photographs
Architectural Concept and Design Philosophy
Dominique Perrault’s design for the new Longchamp grandstand is a masterclass in architectural dynamism. Drawing inspiration from the elegance of a galloping horse, the grandstand’s levels are staggered and tilted, creating an interplay of motion and perspective. This dynamic overhang extends twenty meters towards the track, directing attention to the heart of the racecourse.
The transparency of the structure embodies the concept of fluidity, eliminating traditional boundaries between front and back. Spectators are invited to flow seamlessly between views of the racecourse and the parade ring, experiencing an uninterrupted connection with the event. Materials such as golden aluminum, wood, and concrete enhance this design philosophy. The golden facade, in particular, reflects the changing light, integrating the structure harmoniously into its natural surroundings while evoking the historical elegance of the original racecourse.
Perrault’s approach is minimalist yet impactful, emphasizing lightness and openness. The result is an architectural icon that is as visually compelling as it is functional.
Integration with Landscape and Heritage
The redesign of Paris Longchamp pays homage to the historical landscape crafted by Adolphe Alphand in the 19th century. By reducing the built footprint and enhancing the surrounding greenery, the project brings the natural heritage of the Bois de Boulogne to the forefront. Over 600 trees have been preserved and planted, while expansive lawns provide a serene backdrop for visitors.
Historical structures, including the Pavilion Tribune and the Totalizer, have been meticulously rehabilitated, restoring their original charm while updating them for contemporary use. The Pavilion Tribune, built in 1921, now features reopened galleries and reinforced structures, connecting the past with the present.
Visual permeability has been a core principle of the landscape design. The west fringe of the racecourse now seamlessly integrates with the Bois de Boulogne, dissolving barriers and creating an inviting spatial continuum. The promenade, reminiscent of the “planches” of Deauville, further enhances this connection, allowing visitors to experience the gardens and architecture as a cohesive whole.
Spatial Innovation and Functionality
The centerpiece of Perrault’s intervention, the new grandstand, redefines spatial innovation in racecourse design. With a seating capacity of 10,000, it offers four levels of meticulously planned spaces. These include a rooftop terrace restaurant, VIP suites, hospitality areas, and public zones. The first two levels cater to the general public, while the upper levels provide exclusive spaces for professionals and VIPs.
The grandstand’s porosity ensures fluid movement and a sense of openness, with 360-degree views of the racecourse and surrounding landscape. The elevated pedestrian promenade, known as “Planches,” further enhances spatial connectivity. Stretching 5,500 meters at 4.5 meters above ground, it links key areas such as the grandstand, parade ring, and lawn while doubling as a venue for temporary events.
Flexibility and adaptability are hallmarks of the design. Modular suites can be transformed to provide direct access to main lounges, and temporary pavilions can be erected for large-scale events. The new parade ring, relocated to preserve centenary trees, fosters an intimate connection between spectators and the equestrian world, free from visual barriers.
Paris Longchamp Racecourse Urban Impact
Environmental sustainability lies at the heart of the Paris Longchamp project. The racecourse meets rigorous LEED and HQE standards, with innovative systems ensuring energy efficiency. Geothermal heating and 600 square meters of photovoltaic panels contribute to renewable energy use, aligning with the goals of Paris’ Climate Plan.
The revitalized racecourse has also redefined urban ecological design. By prioritizing green spaces and renewable energy, the project sets a benchmark for integrating sustainability into large-scale architectural endeavors. The reduction of built structures, combined with expansive lawns and tree-lined promenades, reaffirms the racecourse’s commitment to ecological balance.
Culturally, Paris Longchamp preserves its historical essence while evolving into a modern landmark. The thoughtful rehabilitation of historic buildings ensures the legacy of Longchamp endures, while the new structures position it as a model for future urban developments.
Paris Longchamp Racecourse Plans
Paris Longchamp Racecourse Image Gallery
About Dominique Perrault
Dominique Perrault is a celebrated French architect renowned for his innovative and context-sensitive designs. Born in 1953, Perrault gained international acclaim in 1989 after winning the competition for the Bibliothèque Nationale de France in Paris, a project that propelled him into the global spotlight. His portfolio spans iconic structures such as the Velodrome and Olympic Swimming Pool in Berlin, the extension of the European Court of Justice in Luxembourg, and the Ewha Womans University campus in Seoul. A pioneer in underground architecture, he authored the book Groundscape: Other Topographies and leads the Underground Architecture Laboratory at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne.
Notes & Additional Credits
- Architectural Design: Dominique Perrault Architecte
- Economist: RPO, Paris
- Structures: Tractabel Engineering, Gennevilliers
- Fluids: Oteis, Rosny-sous-Bois
- Facades: Terrel, Boulogne-Billancourt
- Acoustics and Lighting: JP Lamoureux, Paris
- Museography: Renaud Pierard, Paris
- Client: France Galop, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
- Architect: Dominique Perrault Architecte (DPA/Paris)
- Landscape Architect: TER, Paris
- Winning Competition Entry: September 2011
- Design Studies Began: September 2012
- Construction Began: October 2015
- Foundation Stone Ceremony: March 14, 2016
- Completion: January 2018
- Inauguration: April 29, 2018
- Certifications: HQE (High Environmental Quality), RT2012 compliance
- Site Area: 63 hectares
