FRAC Centre | Jakob + MacFarlane Architects

The FRAC Centre - Regional Fund for Contemporary Art in the Centre region A unique collection of architecture The FRAC, a result of the cultural decentralisation in the 1980s, of a specific agreement between the state and the regions, who are celebrating their thirtieth anniversary this year, have become a model for the diffusion of contemporary art and regional presence. A perpetually evolving model, as evidenced by the FRAC Centre. A collection, a laboratory, a resource, and a centre for research, as well as a site for experimentation, the Turbulences – FRAC Centre will offer another experience of art and architecture. Its unique collection brings together contemporary art and experimental architecture from the 1950s to today. Internationally renowned, to date it includes some 15,000 architectural drawings, 800 models and 600 works by artists. The FRAC Centre, funded by the Centre region and the Ministry of Culture and Communication, is one of a ‘new generation’ of FRAC institutions that have already proved themselves as centres of cultural appeal. The objective is to engage dialogue between disciplines at the heart of new equipment. Its programme will join: museum collection functions and artistic experimentation, mediation and cultural activities. In this context, FRAC Centre is located at the former Subsistances militaires site in Orléans. This architectural renovation was undertaken by the Centre region, the contracting authority, in cooperation with the state - Ministry of Culture and Communication - regional office of cultural affairs (DRAC), Europe (under FEDER) and the City of Orléans. Innovative and daring architecture Architects Jakob + MacFarlane, managing the project, have opted for a strong physical presence. The extension, christened ‘The Turbulences,’ because of its prefabricated tubular structure covered by an anodised aluminium casing, conceptualizes dynamic architecture. Partly covered by an interactive ‘veil of light,’ produced by the associate artists Electronic Shadow, the Turbulences will be programmed in real time. New Features The FRAC Centre will have new features within its 3,000 m2: a permanent gallery (370 m2) displaying the collection’s flagship works; temporary exhibition rooms approximately 1000 m2; a pedagogical workshop (180 m2); a documentation centre; a garden designed by ruedurepos (400 m2). The Turbulences (370 m2), a public reception area, comprises a cafeteria, a bookshop and an auditorium. Furthermore the FRAC Centre benefits from outsourced art work reserves (1,500 m2). The FRAC Centre, a research laboratory for architecture, will provide a valuable tool for developing a transdisciplinary cultural programme centred on relationships between art, architecture and design.