Headquarters of FFCK
Headquarters of the French Canoe, Kayak, and Paddle Sports Federation (FFCK)
The establishment of the Headquarters of the French Canoe, Kayak, and Paddle Sports Federation (FFCK) at the largest whitewater stadium in Europe and its participation in the grand celebration of sport that is Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games is not only an opportunity to strengthen FFCK’s international influence but also a chance to affirm a project committed to strong environmental engagement.
The design of this FFCK House is a project of collective effort—a true team endeavor. The notion of a "house" is essential in this vision of hospitality: welcoming the Paris 2024 Games, the general public, members, and licensed athletes. A house is a place that fosters a sense of belonging while remaining open to others, capable of hosting international events. As part of the legacy of Paris 2024, it will become a public facility for the City of Vaires-sur-Marne, ensuring its long-term use beyond the Games.
Environmental challenges have become unavoidable, especially in the context of the current global climatical crisis. The benefits of a sustainable project — particularly one with a strong and ambitious approach to energy management and bioclimatic architecture — are now indisputable. Climate change is increasingly evident, and architectural projects must be designed to mitigate its effects from the earliest phases of conception.
The environmental excellence of this project relies on key sustainability factors: durability of materials, comfort-enhancing strategies such as cooling islands, and energy efficiency. Bio-sourced materials such as wood serve as a strong marker of this sustainable commitment. Wood is used for both the façades and the structure (a hybrid system of wooden columns and wood-concrete floors) for its durability and its positive impact on the environment.
This emphasis on biosourced materials and an efficient geothermal energy strategy forms the beating heart of the project. The building is powered 100% by geothermal energy and features an active slab system — a network of embedded water pipes in the floor that radiates coolness in summer and warmth in winter. This system serves as a natural complement to passive ventilation when temperatures exceed comfortable limits for open windows.
For this French Canoe, Kayak, and Paddle Sports Headquarters, the outdoor spaces are just as important as the indoor spaces. Event organization can take place both inside the building and across a series of outdoor areas, including the rooftop, patio garden, and terraces, some of which are sheltered to adapt to varying weather conditions.
The arrival sequence begins by passing under the elevated building, crossing the patio, and leading into a transparent ground floor that creates a fluid connection between the interior and the landscaped garden. The green rooftop terrace provides panoramic views over the lake, reinforcing the project’s close relationship with its surroundings. The circulation within the building is adaptable to its users—whether they are accessing the offices or public reception areas. This new headquarters is not a rigid form that dictates its function; rather, it is a flexible tool for work, interaction, and engagement.
The FFCK House stands as a contemporary landmark, seamlessly blending into the existing landscape while offering a striking visual identity. Positioned at the roundabout on Route de Torcy, its silhouette rises within the surrounding environment, becoming a new reference point and gathering space at the entrance to the Nautical Stadium.
At the same time, this landscape-driven architecture, simple yet remarkable, integrates harmoniously into its context, establishing a new dialogue with existing buildings. Through its wooden façade and green rooftop, it fosters a sense of cohesion and unity within the site. This project successfully balances the dignity of a federation’s headquarters with the serenity and comfort required for the everyday activities of those who will inhabit and experience the space.
