Pavillon Martell de SelgasCano

The second in situ commission by the Fondation d’entreprise Martell in Cognac, and the first work by the Spanish architects in France.


The site-specific commission of the Fondation d’entreprise Martell, the Pavillon Martell de SelgasCano, is a new, multifaceted architectural project created by Spanish architects SelgasCano and intended to completely fill the vast paved courtyard situated behind the Foundation during the first phase of work.

After the installation Par nature by Vincent Lamouroux, the Pavillon Martell de SelgasCano, conceived this time for the exterior of the building, brings a new architectural and international dimension to the Foundation.

This pavilion is comprised of modules constructed from hi-tech materials, which will house specific activities prefiguring the Foundation’s future schedule of events.

True to their aesthetic of transparency and openness to the outside world, SelgasCano constructed the pavilion from a metal framework covered by a translucent material developed by French brand Onduline. Strong and watertight, the material is permeated by a soft, changing light which creates intriguing iridescent effects. The rainbow reflections thus created are ideally suited to the architects’ aesthetics. This large pavilion, composed of flexible and organic shapes, is in harmony with environment, the architects defending the idea that “nature must prevail over architecture.” The Pavilion also illustrates the transversality of technologies, uses and materials, which is a major focus for future projects developed by the Foundation.

Designed to host visitors and events, the Pavillon Martell de SelgasCano brings together a diverse programme centred on activities and themes that prefigure the Fondation d’entreprise Martell’s programming. Inflatable seats installed in the structure, attached by straps, will allow visitors to sit, lean, or stretch out in the context of workshops, concerts, presentations, conferences, markets, games, moments of relaxation, wanderings, etc. From summer 2017, visitors will be able to enjoy creation and performance-based experiences with invited designers including Atelier W110 and 71bis, and artistic partners such as the Abbaye aux Dames. 
 

The Fondation d’entreprise Martell
A multidisciplinary cultural corporate foundation in Cognac dedicated to the very best contemporary creation and expertise

Launched in October 2016 and directed by Nathalie Viot since 1st January 2017, the Fondation d’entreprise Martell offers a rich and varied programme of events promoting local, national and international collaborations. Envisioned as a cultural and creative ecosystem, the Foundation aims to re ect the diversity of contemporary creation and reveal outstanding talent and savoir-faire.

Curious, open and transversal, it will offer new experiences in terms of artistic production, research and mediation in complementary spheres (art, design, architecture, craft, fragrance, digital, dance, literature, music etc.) through exhibitions, workshops, a living lab, events and in-residence programmes.

As a centre for innovation and creation deeply rooted in the local area, the Fondation d’entreprise Martell aims to be a motor for long- term growth and development, raising the profile of the town of Cognac, the departments of Charente and Charente-Maritime, and the entire Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. 

Upcoming events: 
Atelier W110
Balancelle/Balançoire
July 11, 6pm
The Atelier W110 offers a space of relaxation within the Pavilion, and a display presenting the Genèse project conducted in association with designers Thibaud Klepper and Alfredo Da Silva.

71bis
Le Grand Soir
September 16, 9pm
Le Petit Lever
September 17, 7am
Behind 71bis, two designers, one from Mali, the other from Paris. One lives in Cognac, the other, in London. After making their mark in the luxury universe, they realized their dream in creating 71bis, a new French sleepwear brand based in Cognac. 

Contact Communication and Media relations
L’art en plus, o.desmedt [​at​] lartenplus.com