Trade-Fair Hall in Paris

The new hall north of Paris constitutes the first phase of a 300 000 m2 expansion. Since such spaces are only in use periodically, this new building is designed to accommodate other types of events, as well. Thus, the higher, free-span wing of the bi-partite hall can be transformed into an auditorium. A double-skin facade surrounds the steel construction and furnishes the hall with daylight and natural ventilation. This buffer zone links or separates the outer and inner zones as needed via ventilating sashes. In winter, warmed air is directed into the hall; in summer, the inner facade and the sun protection remain closed during the day, while at night the cool air is allowed to flow into the hall.