Grandstand

The Horse Racing Grandstand at the Vaulx-en-Velin Hippodrome, on the outskirts of Lyon, France, initially began as a refurbishment project for an old, deteriorating concrete grandstand that had been poorly maintained for years.

However, it soon became clear that the existing structure was too limited to fully meet the client’s needs. As a result, a completely new, state-of-the-art facility was designed.

Working with the FCS – France Cheval Services and the client, a cutting-edge grandstand was developed, featuring:

• Ground Level – Offices and technical rooms with direct access from the street, tucked beneath the 1,000-seat spectator area.

• First Floor – The Grand Hall, positioned at the top of the spectator seating.

• Upper Level – The Owner’s Room and Restaurant, offering stunning views over the entire racetrack, particularly the winner’s enclosure.

• Roof Level – Judges’ and photo-finish facilities, ensuring a prime vantage point for race adjudication.

The new Horse Racing Grandstand was designed to be uncompromisingly modern, yet tactile and inviting. It has since become a much-loved architectural icon in the City of Lyon and beyond, regularly hosting prestigious racing events.