The Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin (CIGV) in Dijon was inspired by two UNESCO recognitions: the "gastronomic meal of the French" as Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2010 and the Climats of Burgundy wine region as World Heritage. Dijon was chosen as one of four cities to host a Cité de la Gastronomie, following a government initiative. The project combines French gastronomy and wine culture within a historic site in central Dijon. It includes cultural spaces, hotels, cinema, offices, educational and commercial spaces, It also includes an eco-neighborhood with housing. The CIGV repurposes the former General Hospital site, creating a new urban quarter that celebrates French culinary traditions and Burgundy wines while offering cultural facilities and economic opportunities.
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The CIGV transforms a former hospital site into a new urban quarter, bridging the gap created by railway tracks that previously divided the area from Dijon's city center. The project blends heritage preservation with contemporary architecture, establishing new pedestrian pathways and green corridors linking to nearby attractions. It includes an eco-neighborhood with housing, integrating the site back into the urban fabric.A striking "Canon of Light" structure provides views over the railway to the city's church spires, visually reconnecting the areas. The CIGV aims to be a new "gateway" to Dijon, welcoming visitors and marking the start of the Burgundy wine route. Through thoughtful urban planning, the project creates a vibrant district that enhances Dijon's cultural offerings while harmoniously integrating with its surroundings.
The CIGV project has prioritized sustainability through various strategies, including energy efficiency, waste and water management, heat island reduction, and biodiversity preservation. The project utilized local materials and implemented circular economy principles, such as reusing 45,000 tons of materials from demolished buildings, saving 2,250 truck trips and 142 tons of CO2.
The development has received several certifications and awards, including NF Habitat HQE for housing units, BREEAM Very Good for new buildings, and BREEAM Good for renovated historic buildings. It has also won the BUILT DESIGN AWARD in the Cultural Category, ARCHITECTURE MASTERPRIZE, and the Trophée SIATI for efficient urban transformation. These accolades highlight the project's commitment to sustainable construction practices, innovative design, and high quality of life.
The CIGV is an ambitious urban renewal project transforming a 6.5-hectare former hospital site into a vibrant cultural and gastronomic destination. It blends heritage preservation with contemporary architecture, creating a harmonious urban landscape. As one of four Cités de la Gastronomie in France, it celebrates French gastronomy and Burgundy wines. The project combines cultural facilities, educational institutions like the Ferrandi Paris culinary school, commercial spaces, and an eco-neighborhood with diverse housing options. Sustainability is a key focus, incorporating eco-friendly features such as district heating and rainwater recovery. Architectural innovation is exemplified by the "Canon of Light" structure, which visually connects the site to Dijon's historic center. New pedestrian pathways and green corridors enhance urban connectivity. By combining heritage preservation, cultural celebration, and sustainable development, the CIGV creates a unique destination that boosts Dijon's appeal and economy.
Winning the International City of Gastronomy and Wine project in 2014 was like embarking on an Everest climb to showcase Dijon and Bourgogne-Franche-Comté globally. This project was close to our hearts, as its success would make Eiffage's 1000 local employees proud. Eight years later, in 2022, we reached the summit. This great achievement is collective: city services, financiers, architects, and many others supported Eiffage in its various roles.
Bechu & Associés is a century-old family architecture firm. The agency has a multidisciplinary approach, combining architecture, urban planning, interior design, and R&D. They are committed to sustainable development, incorporating bioclimatic design, parametric modeling, new bio-based materials and biomimicry. Key focus areas include climate-responsive urban planning and reintroducing nature in cities. With projects ranging from residential to large-scale public facilities, in France and internationally, Bechu & Associés puts its expertise at the service of each client. The agency has developed scientific partnerships to support innovation and the ecological transition. As a member of the BBCA low-carbon association and co-founder of the BiodiverCity label, the firm aims to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings and promote urban biodiversity. Bechu & Associés strives to create architecture that is rooted in its context while embracing the future.