Vass Municipal Campground

Text description provided by architect.

The campground is well situated in the heart of the Loire Valley between the river, a forest of large chestnut trees and a 15th century village.

The initial program proposed the renovation of the existing facility; however, while defining the objectives of the project with the elected officials in the commune the need for a new building became evident.

Highlight the site by creating both a natural and built environment. To achieve this, three new structures were carefully placed on the site.

The reception pavilion indicates the entrance and represents the establishment. Programmatically, it is used to welcome guests and administer their comings and goings as well as dispense tourist information, bike rental etc.

The pattern of new concrete paths and benches create a network of paths that allow for a variety of daily commutes in and around the center. While ushering users into the facilities, the hardscape also provides a visual gradation from the natural to the built environments.

The pavilions are simple wooden volumes that drew inspiration from the local vernacular.

It provides warmth and comfort, both acoustic and hygrometric, for the users, while responding to the desire for construction that is more environmentally respectful.