Laval +

City of virtual reality – Laval
 
The purpose of the City of Virtual Reality is to create a new and iconic architectural entity at the heart of the metropolitan area of Laval, based on an innovative program that combines research, display, education, and sport. The design consists of a technology city set in a circle with a diameter of 100 m diameter, a figure selected for the potency of its urban expression and its dimension as a universal symbol. The design of the center addresses the working methods and new forms of collaboration that encourage interactions between the different stakeholders involved virtual reality projects across the metropolis. The program is structured around a grid of connections designed as streets and squares that facilitate informal encounters between users and the free circulation of ideas. The activities of the City are distributed on three levels, with spaces open to the general public situated at ground level, and experimental labs, workrooms, and educational facilities on the two upper floors. A network of outside terraces creates recreational spaces for breaks and informal discussions, while a billboard located on a larger platform provides a constant flow of information on current events.
Program Mixed-use centre for cultural events and local computer simulation industries
Client Région Pays de la Loire et Laval Agglomération
Surface area 5700 sqm
Budget €12,041,000
Architects Muoto & Paul-Eric Schirr-Bonnans
Consultants ATEC Jérôme Vaillant, Espace-Temps, Atelier CMJN, Bollinger & Grohmann, Acoustibel, Viabe, Guillaume Derrien
Year 2013-2014