Image: Foster and Partners

The Zénith, Saint-Etienne’s dramatically designed new arts venue has just been unveiled.

Designed by architects Foster + Partners, the new building is characterised by its magnificent aerodynamic roof, which takes advantage of the natural climate, providing ventilation for the building.

Located in a valley with prevailing north and south winds, the cantilevered roof structure channels the air through the building, a system which is fully reversible to take advantage of winds from both directions to assist natural ventilation and cooling.

At night, the cold air currents through the auditorium are harnessed, using the thermal properties of the exposed concrete finishes in the auditorium.

There is also a large plaza area shaded in part by the deep overhang of the roof canopy which also shades a glazed foyer.

The building’s form is energy efficient and offers great flexibility, accommodating over 7,000 people and marks a major departure from Zénith’s tradition of using temporary venues.

Image: Foster and Partners

The erection of a permanent structure seeks to raise the French city’s profile as a cultural venue as part of the regeneration of this former industrial area.

“The Zénith provides a flexible, state-of-the-art venue for the people of Saint-Etienne and I look forward to seeing the opening performances bring the building to life.

Its distinctive roof is a significant part of the building’s environmental strategy as well as a powerful symbol of regeneration for the city,” Norman Foster said.