Art Rhena: Windows on Innovation with WindowMaster

Designed in collaboration by the prestigious German and French architectural firms, Gies Architekten and Hugues Klein Architectes, the building's striking facades were designed and installed by contractor Laugel et Renouard.

Following strict specifications with a low carbon footprint, they integrated WindowMaster into the project to provide natural ventilation solutions that would help optimize the functionality and environmental performance of the region's newest cultural hub.

A vision of collaboration

The idea of ​​a Franco-German cultural center on the Rhine island was first proposed by the Communauté de Communes Alsace Rhin Brisach and the town of Breisach am Rhein in 2018. The aim was to establish a community hub for art and culture in the region, offering a rich program of dance, music, circus and theater for all.

This laudable initiative quickly received the support of the European Commission (Interreg Upper Rhine), the French government, the Grand Est region and the German city of Breisach am Rhein. It was this close and international collaboration, as well as cooperation with other neighboring German and French municipalities, that quickly made it possible to begin construction.

In the spirit of cooperation, it was decided to bring in French and German designers to collaborate on the project, leading to the selection of Gies Architekten and Hugues Klein Architectes.

Their vision was to create a space that would blend harmoniously into its stunning natural surroundings and serve as a symbol of unity within the cross-border region. Working together, they developed a design that met and exceeded both of these goals.

They imposed strict sustainability specifications that would cover every aspect of construction, from the materials used to the methods of their installation.

Mobilization of experts

A unique feature of the Art Rhena project are its carefully designed and shaped facades to harmonize with the natural landscape. Leading this aspect of the project is contractor Laugel and Renouard, who, in close collaboration with Gies Architekten and Hugues Klein Architectes, played a key role in bringing the design concept to fruition. Their dedication to precision laid the foundation for the seamless integration of WindowMaster's innovative solutions, contributing to the success of the project.

After reviewing several options for the HVAC system, Laugel and Renouard selected WindowMaster MGAIR to provide its industry-leading solutions, including the CompactSmoke 4A, 10A and 20A smoke control boxes for smoke control and natural ventilation configuration.

The tertiary space on the ground floor is characterized by a high-performance envelope with triple glazing and mobile external solar protection. During the day, the space is flooded with natural light and ventilation thanks to the facade openings and skylights on the roof.

In collaboration with its local French partner, the distributor and cleantech expert MGAir, WindowMaster has demonstrated the ability of its teams to undertake large-scale projects, where a large number of stakeholders are involved, and to implement innovative solutions .

Eight acoustic openings were installed in the performance hall as well as three air intakes and three extractions in the stage storage room. In the tertiary space, three Velux roof windows were also connected to WindowMaster control panels to ensure smoke extraction and ventilation.

By setting up the HVAC system, the indoor climate can be controlled easily. By adapting to outside air currents to ventilate the air flow inside, it is possible to provide an increased level of comfort for visitors and an improvement in air quality. Basically, Art Rhena provides area residents with the benefits of cleaner, healthier air.

“Art Rhena embodies the harmony between architecture and the environment. The WindowMaster MGAir team is thrilled to have been part of this achievement, delivering advanced clean air solutions that elevate safety, well-being and sustainability in this cultural beacon. Our collaboration sets a new standard for future projects, demonstrating the power of innovative cleantech,” says Julien Hauwelle, MGAir.

Prioritizing safety

In the event of a fire, rapid smoke extraction is imperative to prevent risks to respiratory health, particularly in areas such as stairwells, which are crucial to guaranteeing the safe evacuation of occupants in the event of an emergency. .

Thus, in compliance with European regulations on fire safety in buildings, MGAir collaborated with Laugel and Renouard to specify smoke extraction solutions. Art Rhena, with its NF certified smoke extraction system, guarantees compliance with the most rigorous fire safety standards, thus ensuring the protection and well-being of occupants in all circumstances.

Opened in 2021, the building itself is an architectural gem, comprising a spacious hall for up to 400 people, offering captivating views of the Rhine and the Brisach Rock. Complementing this space are facilities that enrich the visitor experience, including multi-purpose rooms, an elegant foyer, a large outdoor gazebo offering panoramic views, and a public plaza outside, which can be used for organize outdoor activities.

In addition, the building also houses a tourist information point, the INFOBEST services, the offices of the Freiburg Eurodistrict Region – Center and South Alsace, as well as those of the Culture, Youth and Sport Service of the Communauté de Communes Alsace Rhin Brisach.

In short, Art'Rhena promotes the cultural richness of the region and sets a precedent as a model for future mixed-use developments, presenting innovative solutions for years to come.