Centre Pompidou-Metz

The Centre Pompidou-Metz will be a large hexagonal structure covering a collection of interior spaces. It will be structured round a central spire reaching 77 metres high.

With a surface area of 8,000 m2, the roofing will be made up of hexagonal wooden units resembling the cane-work pattern of a Chinese hat. This structure will be covered with a waterproof membrane made from fibre glass and teflon (PTFE or Poly-Tetra-Fluoro Ethylene).

Three galleries in the shape of rectangular (parallelepipedic) tubes will weave through the building at different levels, jutting out through the roof with huge picture windows angled towards landmarks such as the cathedral, the station and Seille Park.

As a whole the architecture evokes a vast marquee surrounded by a square and garden. 5,000 m2 of the 10,660 m2 total surface area will be devoted to exhibition space, while the remainder will include areas that may also house works of art: a sculpture garden, forum, restaurant terrace and the top of the galleries.

The Centre Pompidou-Metz will not be a mere replica of the Centre Pompidou, but a projection of it, according to the national institution’s president Alain Seban. The Centre Pompidou-Metz will in particular satisfy the need to provide wider access to the Musée National d’Art Moderne’s collection.

More info: Centre Pompidou-Metz