ARTE

In 1998, Ian Ritchie Architects won an invited competition to design the new television HQ for the European TV channel, ARTE, in Strasbourg. This building would centralise all production studios, administration and public facilities. The design was developed to maximise energy efficiency, and to create a healthy naturally ventilated environment for all spaces except TV studios.

Located on the edge of water, and respecting the flood plain limitations of the site, the design concept was presented at an advanced stage before ARTE decided to opt for an alternative procurement route that prioritised a more conventional office building and cellular office accommodation with little apparent concern for design or environmental quality.  We chose to resign the commission.