Five architects shortlisted for the Louvre's new conservation centre

The Louvre's collection stores, currently located in Paris, are exposed to the risk of a once-in-a-century flood. Some 220,000 works, spread over 8,600 m², are affected by this risk. What is more, the works are scattered across some sixty separate stores. It was against this background that the idea of a single conservation centre was born. The chosen site is the ZAC Jean-Jaurès in Liévin, close to the Louvre-Lens. The project provides for 20,000 m² of floor area, representing an investment of €60 million. The centre will be open to researchers and scientists, but under no circumstances to the general public.

Launched a year ago, the competition attracted 173 applications, and the jury has now selected five teams:

• Corinne Vezzoni & Associés : Architect of the MuCEM conservation and resource centre, she is joined by Scenario – Ara; Atelier Jacqueline Osty & Associés; SYMOE; and Ingerop.
• Neutelings Riedijk Architecten : The Dutch practice is best known for designing the MAS in Antwerp. They are teamed with Daniel Vaniche et Associés; West Urnab Design and Landscape; DVVD; Setec Bâtiment; RFR Elements; Kahle Acoustics; and Mazet et Associés.
• Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners: The practice of Pritzker laureate Richard Rogers needs no introduction. It is joined by Mutabilis Paysage, Egis Bâtiment Nord, Inddigo and VPEAS.
• Estudio Arquitectura Baeza: The Spanish architect Alberto Campo Baeza made his name with the Museo de la Memoria de Andalucía in Granada. He is joined by Architectures Raphaël Gabrion; Bollinger+Grohmann; Mizrahi; RFR; Emma Blanc; CL Infra; and Gebolys.
• ZigZag Architecture : The Lille-based practice is best known for the EDHEC business school in Roubaix. It is working with Setec Bâtiment; Matriciel; Etac; and Talagrand et Associés.

The winner will be announced on 15 April.