Situated at the periphery of a tranquil forest in Saint Sulpice et Cameyrac, France, the leisure center, crafted by Esnard Sanz Architectes, exemplifies the seamless fusion of architecture and nature. The center transcends being merely a recreational facility; it serves as a serene sanctuary where the demarcation between the constructed realm and the natural landscape melds harmoniously.
SSC Leisure Center Technical Information
- Architects: Esnard Sanz Architectes
- Location: Saint Sulpice et Cameyrac, France
- Area: 400 m2
- Completion Year: 2022
- Photographs: © Agnes Clotis
The research for the clarity of the plan, the comprehensibility of the whole, guides our design towards a building without artifice, a simple interface between the users and the environment.
– Esnard Sanz Architectes
SSC Leisure Center Photographs
Harmonizing with Nature: A Unique Blend of Architecture & Landscape
One of the most striking aspects of this project is its relationship with the surrounding landscape. Facing south and nestled amidst the trees, the building has been carefully positioned to capture breathtaking views and maximize natural light. The architects have achieved this through a clever combination of wood and concrete, resulting in a structure that serves as a visual and functional extension of the forest.
The Saint Sulpice et Cameyrac leisure center is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in design. Esnard Sanz Architectes have opted for a straightforward and rational floor plan that emphasizes efficiency and economy. The structure itself is unassuming, with an exposed wooden and concrete framework that elegantly defines the interior spaces.
Inside, the leisure center unfolds as a series of identical, spacious, and luminous activity areas, all of which offer sweeping forest views. These spaces seamlessly connect to a wide, well-lit circulation area that serves not only as a pathway but also as a communal hub, bridging the courtyard and the classrooms. The design encourages interaction and fosters a sense of community, making it a true living space, open to the outdoors.
Every detail of the center has been carefully considered to provide a warm and nurturing environment for children. The structural elements and furniture throughout the building are crafted from wood, creating a welcoming and healthy atmosphere for learning and creativity. It’s a space where young minds can thrive, surrounded by natural materials and an abundance of daylight.
Esnard Sanz Architectes’ design philosophy for the project is all about finding the balance between blending into the environment and making a statement. The result is a building that doesn’t rely on architectural gimmicks or unnecessary embellishments. Instead, it acts as a simple yet profound interface between its users and the natural world that envelops it.
The Saint Sulpice et Cameyrac Center, designed by Esnard Sanz Architectes, exemplifies the harmonious coexistence of architecture and nature. Its unpretentious design and thoughtful integration with the surrounding forest make it a place where people can connect, learn, and play while being in tune with the beauty of the natural world.
SSC Leisure Center Plans
SSC Leisure Center Image Gallery
About Esnard Sanz Architectes
Esnard Sanz Architectes is an architectural firm co-founded by Bordeaux-based architects Antoine Esnard and Fabien Sanz. They specialize in creating contextually sensitive and straightforward architecture. Their work prioritizes clarity in spatial design and the expressive qualities of materials. They aim to simplify and enhance spaces, emphasizing functionality and the surrounding environment.
Notes & Additional Credits
- Client: Ville de Saint Sulpice et Cameyrac
- Budget: 750 000 Euros
