Court of Arbitration for Sport

Like a piece of a puzzle, the project fits in a respectful and coherent manner into the existing building, whilst bringing a new identity to this „area“ of the Palais de Beaulieu with it‘s program dedicated to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. In the historic double height ballroom, we find the courtrooms. There central insertion into the space permits a visible connection from all floors, give the project both a strong identity and helping to create a unique atmosphere to the CAS. These slender multifaceted boxes are illuminated by natural light from roof top openings, while the other offices, caucus and meeting rooms are located along the facades taking advantage of the views. In order to integrate all the necessary surfaces for the proper functioning of the court, two additional floors have been added. This new light weight glass volume is located on the existing roof, with the benefit of bringing to view the CAS‘s seat and to act as a landmark for visitors from the outside. Its folded facade, is composed of geometric surfaces similar to those of the courtrooms. There clean, contemporary style, is both in keeping in character and echoes the repetitive regularity of the neo-classical facades of the Palais de Beaulieu.

The public spaces, including the media room and the auditorium are located on levels 1 and 2 on the Beaulieu main square side of the building. They are accessible from the East circulation block. The courtroom dedicated programs are all grouped on the same floor, level 2, including the caucus rooms and lounges. These areas have direct access to the VIP parking in the basement. The two story additional floors are home to the president’s office, the CIAS department, the staff offices and common spaces, such as the cafeteria and the outside terrace and the library, which is oriented towards the back patio.

The existing main structural lines are retained and extended to accommodate the new construction on the roof. The courtrooms are inserted into the void, to minimize the impact on the structure.