Public Space in Clermont-sous-Huy

Programme: Creation of a community gathering space in Clermont-sous-Huy as part of a Municipal Rural Development Program, with the primary objective of making use of the existing built environment and reinforcing the preexisting local hub.

About: The program notably includes the construction of a multipurpose building, the development of a covered outdoor area, and the provision of a parking space.

A dividing wall clad with openwork wood between the playground and the community space allows the courtyard to be “privatized” and subtly differentiates the various (re)created areas. This wall also serves as the anchor point for the canopy that covers both spaces.

Presented as a thin steel blade subtly suspended on posts, the canopy is made of hot-dip galvanized steel in a light gray color. Its underside, finished in gold-toned stainless steel, has a mirrored effect that reflects the activities below, bringing a playful and even poetic dimension to the overall design.

Regarding placement, the multipurpose building is aligned with the school building. This creates coherence between the different spaces and functions while allowing smooth and easy circulation from one area to another.

Finally, recognizing that enhancing the built environment requires careful consideration of amenities, the architectural approach also incorporates selected urban furniture such as benches, early childhood play modules, a table tennis table, and lighting fixtures. These elements emphasize and punctuate the architectural and urban lines of the project while enhancing the sense of safety. In the evening, the lighting generates varied atmospheres corresponding to the different areas.