This building contains two different programs: premises intended for the RATP(Paris Public Transport System) on ground-floor and premises intended for a Circus on the second floor. Each function defined by a singular volume. Uncoupling the two functions shall be effected by a separate treatment of volumes and materials. In continuity of the walls of the tunnel above the ring road, the RATP’ offices on the ground area joins at the idea of a base. The circus’ offices seem them to be put in the style of a circus tent on a base.

The circus’ building, which overhangs the square, is a very compelling volume. Three of his facades are not accessible. To reduce its impact and to mark it out, its volume is split and cut. Its shape creates two slender volume, each linked to a different function. One volume receives the administration and the public, and the other, the workshop and the reserves. The splitting of the facade contributes to minimize the presence of the pavilion and gives depth to the building. The decomposition of spaces allows a hierarchical organization and proper functioning of the whole. A golden lacquered perforated steel sheet wraps the circus pavilion. This double skin works like a moucharabieh. This mesh permeable to light protects the various elements of the program such as toilets, reserves and the workshop. This materiality corresponds to the idea of circus: By night, the interior light become a lantern who participates to the entertainment.