Case Study | Richard Rogers Art Gallery, Aix-en-Provence, France
We are increasingly adopting our off-site methods for unique requirements including bespoke luxury projects.
The main objective of this specialised project was to provide off-site constructed building enclosure components for the Richard Rodgers Gallery Art Gallery situated in the 500 acre grounds of Chateaux La Coste, Provence, in the South of France – a challenging location that required precise planning and clever engineering.
A complex build, the state-of-the-art Gallery was designed by the late Richard Rogers of RSHP Architects. Setanta Construction worked with a wide team of top professionals throughout the UK and Europe who brought together proficient knowledge and supplied specialist components during particular phases of the build. It was a collaborative team approach, all of whom were heavily reliant on each other to deliver a successful build.
- Architect: Richard Rogers (Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners)
- Local architect: Demaria Architecture
- Client: Chàteau La Coste/Paddy Mc Killen
- Structural engineer: Lang Engineering Consultancy
- Project manager: Rainey + Best
- Steel Works: Bysteel
We were given drawings for the Gallery and asked to engineer and build modular components capable of being manufactured off-site in our factory and transported to the site in France. Choosing the right materials for the desired structure and thermal performance was key to ensure that the building would not overheat in the hot summer months.
The enclosed components were insulated with a pumped polystyrene 300mm thick and fitted with specific lifting points before being shrink wrapped and sent off to be fitted onsite. To assemble, the components had to be bolted into place and interlocked to achieve structure and long-lasting weather tightness, while ensuring the unique minimalistic and modern exterior design was maintained at all times.
Setanta Construction were delighted to have played an instrumental part in the building and construction of this unique art gallery; and winning the overall 'Commercial Project' Master Builder Award 2023 is a fantastic accolade for the project and our entire team.