A Fantastic Auditorium by Shigeru Ban Architects

With its unique and shimmering façade La Seine Musicale, Seguin Island has become a focal point of the region- the heartbeat of Vallée de la Culture in Hauts- de-Seine. La Seine Musicale as the name suggests links music and art that touches our souls and brings them together at each concert. The architecture has been, created by Shigeru Ban and Jean de Gastines, who have admirably fulfilled the wish of the Department and its partners to offer a place that, is both ambitious and welcoming.

In 2013, Japanese architect Shigeru ban was selected to design this major new music venue in France. It was developed in collaboration with local architect Jean de Gastines, Shigeru Ban’s ship-like design responds to the curvature of the island as well as its industrial heritage.

Architects: Shigeru Ban and Jean de Gastines

The project’s defining feature is a spherical auditorium with a ‘sail’ of photovoltaic panels, which moves in response to the sun’s path across the sky. Conceived as a new symbol for Western Paris, ‘la seine musicale’ also seeks to stand as a landmark of sustainability for the city.

Dedicated to classical and contemporary non-amplified music, the 1,150-seat auditorium has been designed to foster visual and acoustic intimacy between the performers and the audience. Surrounding the stage, interior walls and ceilings have been covered with a variety of timber forms and patterns that establish a warm and inviting atmosphere.

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