Frac Dunkerque

* Disclaimer
The Circular Design Atlas is an online open source database intended for educational purposes on a non-profit basis. It accommodates a series of case studies researched and analysed by students across the material, component, building, as well as the neighbourhood, city and regional scale. We have tried to be careful with third-party rights, such as intellectual property rights, on visual material we have cited in order to make these case studies possible. In the unexpected event of incorrect source citation or indication of credits or any other complaint, please contact the Circular Built Environment Hub. 
 

The FRAC is a modern art museum completed by architects Lacaton & Vassal as a new addition to an existing shipyard on the site of the harbor in Dukerque, France. The significance of the design comes from the decision to make minimal interventions to the existing structure, and instead duplicate its form using contemporary light-weight materials.

The project is noted for its innovative approach to heritage design, but can also be referenced for some of the choices made to enhance the circularity of the building, most notably the adaptive re-use of an existing building, and the design for disassembly approach for the new facade. As well, the design of the space plan, both in the old and new building, allow for potential future use of the structure. Another prominent circular approach adopted by the architects is “reduce” — seen in the clear consideration to minimize material used through a light weight structure, as well as the adaptive comfort approach to bio-climatic design.