With a modest yet emblematic structure Gensler proposes a temporary place of worship with the same dimensions as the Notre-Dame. The pavilion consists of mostly translucent cladding. ETFE cushions for the roof and polycarbonate walls will ensure the space is flooded with natural light. Movable and rotating panels allow for a flexible space that can close or open up.
Duncan Swinhoe, Regional Managing Principal at Gensler, choses to construct the structure primarily out of charred timber: “Charred timber, which is one of the oldest and most effective methods of protecting wood from fire, also symbolises that what once destroyed Notre-Dame will only serve to make it stronger thus expressing a language of rebirth and transformation.”
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London - International architecture and design firm, Gensler, has unveiled a striking design for a temporary place of worship at Notre-Dame. Set to be located in the cathedral’s iconic Parvis Square, the Pavillon Notre-Dame is intended to offer a beacon of hope to Parisians and international visitors alike, whilst the 850-year-old cathedral is being restored.
Gensler’s design offers a modest yet emblematic temporary structure constructed primarily out of charred timber providing the structure with added strength and durability. “Charred timber, which is one of the oldest and most effective methods of protecting wood from fire, also symbolises that what once destroyed Notre-Dame will only serve to make it stronger thus expressing a language of rebirth and transformation,” says Duncan Swinhoe, Regional Managing Principal at Gensler.
Functioning as a sheltered nave, the temporary structure is reminiscent of the structural rhythms and forms of the Gothic cathedral. With a roof constructed out of ETFE cushions and walls made up of translucent polycarbonate, the temporary structure will be flooded with natural light, emphasising the ethereal quality of the space whilst creating visual relief.
Replicated to the same dimensions as Notre-Dame to ensure familiarity, the temporary space has been designed to serve a multitude of functions, from religious services to exhibitions and markets to performance.
Behind the altar, movable panels will be installed that will allow for a full view of Notre-Dame. Gensler’s design also includes rotating panels at ground level that can be positioned to open or close the edge of the structure to mirror the configuration of the cathedral for mass services or be moved to seamlessly open up the space for performances or as a marketplace.
Duncan Swinhoe, Regional Managing Principal at Gensler, said: “It is important that the design is true to, but doesn’t upstage, the cathedral. We wanted to strike a balance between a structure that invites the community yet can be transformed to become a reflective and spiritual haven when mass is celebrated. We hope this offers the people of Paris, and the world, a statement of hope and rebirth.”
Gensler has been careful to pay homage to Notre-Dame by creating a humble space which provides a critical hub for the community to gather while the cathedral is being restored.
