Third Place at the "lighthouse"

Programme

Creation of an extension, serving as a 'third place,' to the building known as 'Le Phare.'" 

About

The call for projects by the Walloon Region 'Third Place in a Rural Environment' listed a series of municipalities eligible for this 'rurality,' and Andenne was included due to the vastness of its territory, which encompasses many villages and agricultural areas. Le Phare is in the city, but in a center connected to the surrounding villages, and thus linked to this rural rurality, as evidenced by its audiences (not specifically urban) and partnerships with associations based in the villages of the entity. The tourist office, located at Le Phare, plays a significant role in this connection to the villages (events, management of village halls, network of walks, heritage days, etc.). In a way, it acts as a 'bridge' between a medium-sized city and its rurality, which Le Phare can achieve through culture and tourism. This notion will be further expanded by creating a showcase for local producers. The panoramic terrace of Le Phare provides a visual connection to the entire Andennais territory. It is therefore the ideal location for this third place that connects the center of this small city with its rural periphery.

Architectural composition. The curved forms create a fluid relationship with the initial architecture of Le Phare (for which the architecture studio AIUD was the project author), distinguishing itself from the original balanced composition. There is no confusion: Le Phare maintains its architectural integrity, and the third place is perceived as a different space, which strengthens its identity. The new volume is slipped under the terrace cover. This new space is constructed with wooden frames, from the floor to the ground. The wood contrasts with the materials of Le Phare, further reinforcing the identity of the third place. Additionally, wood is perceived as warm and reassuring, two qualities expected for this space. The choice of this material also results from the objective to respect the DNSH principle. The chosen wood species is larch, both for the facade joinery and the ceiling and seating structures. The bar is covered with Alucobond recovered from the dismantling of the terrace ceiling.

Typology

Public et communautaire

Year of conception

2025

Year of delivery

2025

Client

Ville d'Andenne

Total budget

247.000,00 €

Per m² budget

2352,00

Constructed area

105 m²

More information
https://aiud.be/