Monumental windbreak (or Brise-vent) is preserved and enhanced by the new architectural gesture. This monolithic ruin dominates Le Havre harbour. The new building respects its structure, materiality and height. It stands at a distance, hidden behind the immense concrete curve. The infrastructure regains its protective function, with the new building seemingly shielded by the concrete veil. At the same time, the new building offers a new north-facing façade to the windbreak, opening on to the bay. The south façade remains untouched by construction. A huge landscaped forecourt stretches out at the foot of the curve. It is the public square preceding the entrance to the building.
The existing breaches in the concrete veil become the building’s main entrances. The space beneath the veil is now inhabited. The rhythm of its original structure is reproduced. The breaches are extended. They become vertical walkways or contemplative promontories overlooking the sea. These passageways are the only links built between the now-inhabited windbreak and the new building along the shore, itself designed as a second skin of concrete. The ruin has been requalified as a cultural lighthouse for Le Havre harbour.
 
The building is built around a museum and a range of services designed to meet the needs of the city of Le Havre. This package of services includes daytime and night-time programs: a library, two fab-labs, an open-air amphitheater, an auditorium, a nightclub, a bar-restaurant and a rooftop overlooking the bay. The goal here is to extend the city of Le Havre right into its industrial port.