Complex Challenges

At the bustling Port of Le Havre, the Museum of Circular Textiles emerges as a transformative project, merging Normandy’s maritime heritage with cutting-edge solutions for the global textile waste crisis


Concept and Inspiration


Our design pays tribute to Normandy’s maritime legacy, inspired by the region's historic shipwrecks. By integrating the original wall of the existing structure with a dramatic glass façade, the museum connects past and future while engaging with the active port environment.


Addressing Textile Waste

The museum tackles the pressing issue of textile waste, where discarded clothing from affluent countries causes severe damage in less developed regions. Our goal is to showcase how these textiles can be remanufactured into valuable resources. Key to this mission is the involvement of local factories at the Port of Le Havre. These factories will play a central role in remanufacturing textiles, creating a sustainable supply chain that benefits both the environment and the local economy.


Design and Features


The museum’s steel structure, with its seemingly chaotic arrangement, represents the disorder of textile waste and functions as a screen for dynamic digital exhibits. Visitors will navigate a spiral pathway around this central feature, experiencing the transformation of waste into sustainable solutions.

The journey begins with a long, illuminated corridor that shifts visitors from the reality of waste to a realm of zero waste. The experience culminates with a ride in a glass elevator designed like a ship’s bow, leading to a green oasis symbolizing a sustainable future.


A Memorable Departure


To complete their visit, guests will depart through the green oasis and embark on a boat journey along the Seine River. This serene conclusion not only enhances their experience but also reinforces the museum’s message of sustainability and harmony with nature.


Functions and Impact


The museum’s ground floor will feature rotating exhibitions, showcasing works by artists and craftsmen focused on sustainability. The partially underwater design pays homage to the historical site and provides space for various functions, including:

- A Seminar Auditorium: Hosting talks and conferences on sustainable practices and industry advancements.

Accommodation Rooms: Offering practical lodging for extended stays, allowing deeper engagement with sustainability discussions.


Cultural and Economic Benefits


The Museum of Circular Textiles will elevate Le Havre’s global profile as a leader in sustainability. By attracting international investors and industry figures, it will boost local economic growth, create new business opportunities, and enhance tourism. The involvement of local factories in textile remanufacturing will further strengthen the city’s role in global sustainability efforts.


Conclusion


The Museum of Circular Textiles at the Port of Le Havre is more than an architectural landmark; it’s a powerful statement about the future. Combining historical reverence with innovative design and sustainable practices, it will inspire a global audience and position Le Havre at the forefront of the zero-waste movement. This project celebrates the city’s maritime heritage and advances the agenda for a sustainable future, culminating in a memorable boat journey through the Seine River.