Reimagining the windbreaker.
Once an industrial windscreen shielding the harbor, Centre du Brise-Lames emerges as a floating architectural marvel, designed by Winston Alford-Hamburg and Amanda Dellevigne for the Brise-Vent Havre Museum Competition in Le Havre, France. The sweeping, splayed forms mimic the flow of wind, breathing life into the structure’s original purpose while transforming it into a bold, iconic presence on the waterfront. More than just a building, Centre du Brise-Lames is a statement—a fluid sculpture that redefines the site’s identity and ties together the elements of nature, architecture, and history.
Sustainability at the forefront.
his is architecture with a conscience. The structure’s bones are crafted from mass timber, a renewable material that drastically reduces the carbon footprint while adding a warm, tactile texture to the design. Supported by thermally insulated concrete piles and steel connectors, the centre achieves sustainability without sacrificing strength or style. The result? A balance between natural materials and industrial toughness, ensuring energy efficiency and durability for decades to come.
A beacon on the water.
By day, natural light floods the building through its polycarbonate lower panels and triple-pane glass upper levels. But by night, the centre transforms into a glowing lantern on the harbor. The soft light reflects off the water, turning Centre du Brise-Lames into a shimmering beacon that draws people in. This luminous presence not only enhances the site’s maritime spirit but also turns the centre into a cultural magnet, pulling visitors to explore the waterfront.
Blurring the lines between art and nature.
Centre du Brise-Lames doesn’t stop at the water’s edge. It extends its artistic reach with an outdoor sculpture gardenthat invites visitors to experience both nature and creativity. A floating dock seamlessly connects the centre to the harbor’s existing infrastructure, bridging the gap between past and present, function and beauty. It’s a space where art spills beyond the walls and into the landscape, offering a sensory experience like no other.