04044 –
Completed
– 2011

Silo d'Arenc

Marseille (FR)

Client

City of Marseille

Team

C+T Architectures : architects
A.Todd : chair scenographer
Rouch – Albaric : acousticians

Performing Arts

Program

Building surface area: 4,100 m² / capacity: 1,704 to 1,606
seats or 2,175 seated/standing
Opening: 17.8 to 14 m / depth: 17.8 m to 21.8 m Height
under grid: 12 m
Construction budget: €19.2 M / scenography budget: €2.9 M
Conversion of grain silos into a theater and opera house /
spatial modularity / dressing rooms and backstage areas /
public reception / logistics and storage

équipe ducks

Missions

Scenographic design (spaces and operations)
Design and development of machinery and metalwork
Grill, walkways, platform and underside / telescopic
grandstands / audiovisual / stage lighting
Project coordination and monitoring / site monitoring and
handover

Scenography

The Silo d’Arenc, converted into CEPAC Silo, has become a Marseille landmark: a multipurpose hall nestled in former grain silos labeled “20th Century Heritage.” In this titanic project, the historic “breasts and barrels” were excavated to create a hall with three balconies and a modular floor. The latter can be arranged flat or in tiers, thanks to a telescopic grandstand that allows for multiple configurations: 1,400 seats in opera style, 2,175 seats/standing room for concerts, while also offering intermediate capacities of 1,600 and 1,700 seats. To support these configurations, a complete stage system is available for performances. A truck lift serves the stage, positioned 17 meters above street level, while removable under-stage areas and a motorized orchestra platform at the proscenium can be adapted to suit different artistic forms. Cleverly placed walkways offer strategic lighting angles. A fully functional grid/false grid level, equipped with trusses and rolling beams, facilitates safe stage rigging. Sliding framing panels and a folding reflector adjust the stage opening and the acoustics of the hall according to the show. The audiovisual and lighting networks comply with the latest protocols, ensuring the venue’s versatility. This project is the result of a bold structural adaptation, combining architecture, scenography, and technical expertise. Today, Le Silo has established itself as a landmark venue in Marseille, renowned for its rich and varied program… in an unusual and unique setting…

Missions

Scenographic design (spaces and operations)
Design and development of machinery and metalwork
Grill, walkways, platform and underside / telescopic
grandstands / audiovisual / stage lighting
Project coordination and monitoring / site monitoring and
handover