Paris Olympics: An Architect's View on Working with the City

Contents:

• Instead of large-scale construction — reconstruction and careful attitude to heritage
• Paris — a city designed for large-scale spectacles
• New approaches in the construction of temporary facilities
• Large architecture and temporary ideology

After the spectacular opening of the Olympics in Paris, the number of both enthusiastic supporters and critics of this event has increased significantly. Russian director Konstantin Bogomolov expressed the opinion that the show did not live up to expectations, noting that too many locations and the lack of a unified concept negatively affected the perception of the event.

Unity of place, time and action are important aspects in theatrical arts and literature. These principles help create a harmonious and consistent structure for a work. Unity of place means that the action takes place in one specific location, which helps focus the viewer's or reader's attention. Unity of time limits the action to a specific time interval, usually within a day, which heightens dramatic tension. Unity of action emphasizes the central plot line, excluding extraneous elements, making the work more focused and unified. Explore our material for a deeper understanding of these principles and their impact on the perception of works of art.

Classicism became a dominant architectural style due to its harmony, symmetry, and majestic forms. This style emerged in Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries and quickly gained popularity due to its affinity for the ideals of antiquity. In the Soviet Union, Classicism was particularly sought after, as it represented the stability and power of the state.

Architects of the time used elements of Classicism to create iconic buildings that reflected the ideals of socialist architecture. Buildings in this style were distinguished by their strict lines, columns, and porticoes, giving them a majestic and solemn appearance. Classicism served as a symbol of cultural and political power, making it particularly attractive to the Soviet authorities.

Classicism in the USSR became not only an architectural movement but also an important propaganda tool. Buildings constructed in this style were associated with high achievements and progress, which contributed to the formation of a positive image of the state. Thus, classicism occupied an important place in the country's architectural heritage, shaping the appearance of Soviet cities and emphasizing their historical significance.

We discussed the relationship between the city and the Olympics with architect Daria Alakhverdi. We looked at the achievements and failures of this interaction, and also studied examples of environmentally friendly and quickly erected structures that can be useful for urban development.

A teacher of the undergraduate program at the MARCH School of Architecture and a practicing architect with experience in the field of architecture and design. Specializes in the development of modern architectural solutions and teaching students the fundamentals of architectural design and urban planning. In her practice, she combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, which allows students to gain a deeper understanding of current trends and challenges in the architectural field.

Instead of large-scale construction — reconstruction and careful attitude to heritage

The 2024 Olympics stands out for its emphasis on sustainability and reducing the volume of construction. Each Olympics is criticized for the creation of unnecessary infrastructure that remains unused over time. Why build new when you can use what already exists? In Paris, a significant amount of resources was invested and many facilities were built, but at the same time, a desire for environmental solutions and rational use of resources is clearly evident.

The authorities sought to avoid building a large number of new facilities, making maximum use of existing stadiums and venues. Many of these structures were built in the past, including the Roland Garros stadium, which opened in 1928, and the Yves du Monuard stadium, which dates back to 1907. The Grand Palais was built for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, and the Porte de Versailles exhibition center opened its doors in 1923 for the Paris Trade Fair. The home stadium of Paris Saint-Germain football club, which dates back to 1897, was also in use. This demonstrates how the French effectively utilize historical infrastructure to host major events.

Temporary structures were installed in key locations throughout the city, such as the Champ de Mars, the Esplanade des Invalides, the Place de la Concorde, and the Pont Alexandre III. These places attract the attention of not only tourists but also locals, creating a unique atmosphere and highlighting the architectural heritage of the region. The installation of temporary structures in such iconic areas highlights the importance of cultural events and initiatives aimed at developing the urban environment.

Temporary structures are an effective solution, especially if we look at the example of the Olympic Stadium in Moscow. For many years, this stadium served as a venue for book fairs and concerts. Now almost completely demolished for "renovation," it is just one of many sad stories about the use of temporary facilities. Such cases highlight the importance of careful planning and assessment of the future use of architectural solutions.

Many former Olympic stadiums lie in disrepair, such as the stadium in Athens. Some structures are completely demolished, leaving only empty spaces. In large cities, there are often not enough events to effectively utilize such extensive infrastructure. This leads to many sports complexes becoming irrelevant and requiring significant maintenance costs, raising questions about the feasibility of their existence. The situation highlights the need to rethink approaches to the infrastructure built for the Olympic Games and their future use in urban space.

It is very difficult to watch such videos. Many designers worked hard, and workers contributed their efforts for a few days of emotional uplift and unity. Significant financial investments were made, and yet the stadium was demolished just a year later. This highlights not only the fragility of such projects but also the importance of a thoughtful approach to the construction and operation of sports facilities.

In this context, it is worth noting that in Paris, more attention was paid to the reconstruction of existing facilities. This allows not only to preserve the historical value of the city, but also to improve the infrastructure, which has a positive impact on the quality of life of residents and tourists. Reconstruction in Paris contributes to the creation of a harmonious combination of ancient architecture and modern technologies, which makes the city even more attractive to visit.

Paris adheres to strict regulations that exclude new construction within the historic city center. As a result, only a few new facilities can be erected in Paris. Therefore, the only option remains the development of new districts on the outskirts. Despite these principles, the French authorities have not been able to completely abandon the creation of new facilities in the center. For example, the Olympic Village, housing the athletes, was built, highlighting the complex balance between preserving the city's historic character and the need for modern construction.

The opening ceremony of the Olympics took place in Paris, encompassing numerous locations, including bridges, streets, and the famous catacombs. Focusing on the city, not just the stadium, allowed for the integration of sporting events into the daily lives of Parisians. Thus, sport and the Olympics became an integral part of urban culture, engaging all residents and creating a festive atmosphere on the streets of the capital.

A lecturer in the undergraduate program at the MARCH School of Architecture and a practicing architect with extensive experience in architecture and urban planning. He specializes in contemporary design and innovative approaches to planning. The educational process includes practical classes and projects, which allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in practice and develop creative thinking.

Paris is a city designed for large-scale spectacles.

Some critics, including director Konstantin Bogomolov, argue that the show was a failure and lacked a unified action. In response to these comments, it can be said that Bogomolov may be guided by traditional canons of directing. However, in terms of architecture, ecology, and the involvement of the city in the celebration, the event was quite successful.

Paris has gone through many eras and transformations, which makes it unique and multifaceted. This complex of styles and architectural trends forms the inimitable face of the city. The eclecticism of Paris reflects its rich history and cultural heritage, attracting tourists and art lovers from all over the world.

Paris, originally a medieval city, underwent significant changes in the 19th century. The main goal of this transformation was to create spacious open spaces, designed in a uniform architectural style, capable of accommodating large crowds. The city was radically rebuilt, taking into account the need to organize mass events and parades. This reconstruction not only changed the appearance of Paris but also made it a center of cultural and social life, attracting tourists from all over the world.

Paris is known for its strict grid of symmetrical streets, distinguished by clear proportions and harmonious design. This grid forms the main axis of the city, which stretches from the Louvre to La Defense, a modern business district with skyscrapers. Along the way, the axis connects several iconic arches, creating a unique architectural composition that attracts tourists and residents.

The structure of the Games includes its own axis, which runs from the Olympic flame through the Grand Palais and heads towards the La Defense swimming arena. This axis symbolizes important elements of the events, uniting key locations and creating a unified space for participants and spectators.

Another important axis runs from the Champ de Mars, which serves as a site for military parades, to the Place du Trocadéro. The Eiffel Tower is located on this axis. The regular structure and impressive scale of this space make it an ideal location for mass events, which determined its choice for the official opening ceremony of the Games. This axis also includes sports facilities such as the Grand Palais Ephémère and the open-air temporary arena. These structures further emphasize the significance and uniqueness of this territory for hosting major events.

The approach to the construction of a large stadium designed to host sporting events involving athletes can be characterized as imperial. It is a clear expression of grandeur and power, symbolizing the importance of sport in society. The creation of such a large-scale structure not only emphasizes the status of the city but also serves as a place for people to unite, inspiring them to actively participate in sport and physical education. The stadium becomes a center of attraction for spectators and athletes, creating an atmosphere of unity and competition, which is a key aspect in the development of sports infrastructure.

The rebuilding of Paris in the 19th century was carried out under the principle of centralized power, which radically changed the city's appearance. This historical event creates a special context for the Assassin character from the well-known video game series. His world recreates the layout of old Paris, which no longer exists in reality. Players can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of bygone times, exploring streets and buildings reflecting the architectural features of the era. This approach not only allows for a better understanding of the city's historical heritage but also makes the gaming process more engaging and rich.

New Approaches to the Construction of Temporary Venues

At every Olympics over the past ten years, the topic of ecology has been discussed and environmental projects have been implemented. In some cases, this has led to impressive results, such as the creation of a picturesque park around the Olympic Stadium in Munich. These initiatives highlight the importance of sustainability and environmental protection at major sporting events and help raise environmental awareness among spectators and participants.

The reconstruction of the Dynamo Stadium represents a smart solution for optimizing its investment appeal. Initially, the stadium was designed as a multifunctional complex, which includes elements of a shopping mall and associated infrastructure. This creates an opportunity not only for organizing sporting events but also for the development of commercial activities, which contributes to the return on investment and increased profitability. It is important to consider that the successful implementation of the reconstruction can significantly increase visitor flow and expand the functionality of the facility.

Modern approaches to sustainable design have criticized even such solutions. From an environmental perspective, the construction industry itself, including the extraction of materials, their production, processing, and logistics, causes significant harm to the environment. This demonstrates the need to reconsider existing methods and implement more sustainable practices aimed at minimizing the negative impact on nature. Sustainable construction should consider not only economic but also environmental aspects, which will help reduce the carbon footprint and preserve natural resources for future generations. Reducing the volume of construction is becoming a key trend in today's conditions. It is important not only to use new materials but also to avoid constructing new structures. If the reconstruction and restoration of existing buildings is not possible, the possibility of creating structures that can be adapted to various needs should be considered. This approach allows for more efficient use of resources and minimizes the negative impact on the environment. The creation of temporary transformable pavilions represents an innovative approach in architecture and urban planning. Transformability implies the ability to change scale, which allows large sports pavilions to be adapted to the needs of the urban community. Such pavilions can become an important part of urban infrastructure, accessible to residents and facilitating active interaction between them. This solution not only optimizes space but also meets modern requirements for sustainable urban development.

The Grand Palais is an iconic pavilion with impressive steel structures, made famous by the Chanel fashion shows. Built for the 1897 World's Fair, it continues to attract attention for its architectural beauty and historical significance. This unique facility is a striking example of the engineering art of its time and continues to serve as an important venue for cultural events.

This pavilion exemplifies typical industrial architecture, focusing on functionality and solving specific problems. In this case, the main goal is to create efficient, large-span steel structures that provide ample space for the free movement of many people. The absence of additional supports facilitates the convenient placement of exhibition objects, making the pavilion ideal for hosting mass events and exhibitions.

Overhead diffused lighting plays a key role in creating a comfortable space. It maintains a bright atmosphere with minimal energy consumption, ensuring comfort even with a large number of people: it is always bright and cool. All aesthetic problems are solved through engineering solutions. The effect of airiness is achieved through the use of thin metal forms that are practically invisible. Although decorative elements such as petals and curls can add sophistication, even without them, the sense of space remains preserved.

The building's façade serves as a shell separating its interior space from the outside environment. The primary purpose of a façade is to attract attention and create aesthetic value in the urban landscape. A well-designed façade significantly increases the chances of a building's survival, as it is perceived as an important element of urban architecture. An attractive appearance reduces the likelihood that city authorities will deem it unnecessary and decide on demolition.

The versatility of a building for various functions is ensured not by its façade, but by its engineering components.

An analogue of this approach, more in line with the concept of industrial architecture, is the pavilion of the All-Russian Industrial Exhibition, built in Nizhny Novgorod in 1896 according to the design of Vladimir Shukhov. Unfortunately, none of these pavilions survive to this day. This architectural masterpiece served as an example of an innovative approach to design and construction, combining functionality and aesthetic appeal, making it a significant milestone in the history of Russian industrial architecture.

The Nike Pavilion in Gorky Park, designed by the Kosmos bureau, is an interesting example of a modern architectural approach. Although it doesn't have the scale of the Olympic venues, its concept is still noteworthy. This pavilion is characterized by its simplicity, temporary nature, and modern design. Particular attention was paid to minimizing the use of building materials, making it easy to construct and display. This approach not only reduces costs but also minimizes the environmental impact, making the project relevant in the context of modern sustainable construction.

Key features of architectural projects that contribute to their sustainability and transformation into reusable Olympic venues can be identified. These characteristics include functionality, adaptability to different sports and events, and integration with urban infrastructure. Sustainable design, the use of environmentally friendly materials, and efficient technologies also play an important role in creating venues that can serve society for many years after the Olympic Games. Thus, a thoughtful approach to the design and construction of Olympic venues contributes to their durability and multifunctionality.

The Grand Palais Ephémère reflects the same architectural trends as the Grand Palace, known as the Grand Palais. This structure is characterized by a utilitarian design and a lightweight structure that requires a minimum number of internal supports. The architectural solutions used in the Grand Palais Ephémère are raising many questions and debates among experts.

The name suggests that the structure is weightless, but in practice, it resembles a massive plastic wrapper, which disrupts the visual connection with the historic building. One can only hope that this is merely a temporary pavilion, but unfortunately, it was built several years before the Olympics.

The structure, originally conceived as temporary, has become an instructive example for architects. It clearly demonstrates that temporary structures can have long-term significance. It is important to approach the design of such structures with the same responsibility as durable concrete structures. Temporary projects require careful planning and high-quality execution to become sustainable and functional over the long term.

Large-scale architecture and temporary ideology

In large-scale architecture, authors strive to create projects that not only perform functional tasks, but also carry deep meaning, reflecting The social context, historical events, and political realities. Their works become manifestos of the absurdity of temporary ideas, such as the stadiums built in Berlin in 1935 and Athens in 2004. Both structures continue to function, but their effectiveness raises numerous questions. This underscores one common truth: temporary political solutions often prove meaningless in the face of time, which can destroy everything. Architecture thus becomes not only a reflection of current trends but also a reminder of how fleeting decisions can lose their significance in the historical perspective.

Paris's historic sites are of far greater value to people than its sports facilities. The city's houses, towers, and bridges have survived many eras, including revolutions, wars, crises, and periods of prosperity. These buildings have become symbols of the struggle to preserve cultural heritage. Hosting sporting events against the backdrop of such significant monuments is far more important than choosing a new Olympic site. They are a reminder of the city's history and identity, making them irreplaceable in the eyes of residents and tourists alike.

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