WOOD CONSTRUCTION: ZOOM ON THE DOJO OF AVENCHES IN SWITZERLAND

Whatever the project, wood construction is often an excellent alternative to conventional building techniques. It is economical, efficient and durable, and is also distinguished by its authentic and contemporary aesthetics. Located in Switzerland, the Avenches dojo is a particularly representative example.

PRESENTATION OF THE AVENCHES DOJO AND THE DISCIPLINES THAT CAN BE PRACTICED THERE

Located in the canton of Vaud, Avenches is a small Swiss town of about 4,000 inhabitants. During the 2010s, the municipality undertook a vast public development project to offer its residents a modern sports complex. One of the main infrastructures, built by SMC2, is the Avenches Dojo. The dojo is distinguished by the following technical characteristics:

• A total surface area of 1,500 m², including 200 m² of mats;
• A dozen changing rooms;
• A refreshment room of nearly 192 m²;
• A clubhouse.

In addition, there are the facilities necessary for the practice of martial arts and other sports. The facility is home to the Avenches Judo Club, as well as the Avenches Sport & Santé Association. Members can practice judo, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Pilates, yoga and cross-training.

THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION STAGES OF THE AVENCHES DOJO

With a view to sustainable development, SMC2 opted for the use of a wooden frame. The construction of the Avenches dojo was based on the principle of dry construction. This means that no water was used on the site, as would be the case when pouring concrete or erecting a building with cement. The implementation time is shorter, while the execution remains easier to understand.

The use of environmentally friendly materials and techniques has minimised the environmental impact of the site. This is also reflected in the operation of the site. Wood is known to be an excellent insulator and reduces energy consumption. It is easier to regulate the interior temperature by using the properties of the materials alone. In summer, the use of air conditioning is limited, while in winter, heating may not be necessary.

ENSURING THERMAL AND ACOUSTIC COMFORT FOR THE OCCUPATION AND OPERATION OF THE DOJO

The Avenches dojo therefore offers ideal conditions for sports training as well as for competitions and tournaments. This also applies to the reception of the public on the occasion of these events. Spectators and supporters can sit on the bleachers on either side of the halls. The ancillary facilities, such as the cafeteria and the circulation areas, have also been given special attention to ensure that the premises are comfortable in all circumstances.

In this context, it is essential to ensure that the rooms have excellent acoustics so as not to impact on the concentration of members or neighbouring activities. Here again, the wooden frame of the dojo plays a fundamental role in avoiding acoustic problems, such as echoes and reverberation of sounds. SMC2 has also incorporated eco-materials in the form of cladding. The presence of OSB (Oriented Strand Board) panels improves the quality of the acoustic environment.

OPTIMISING THE INDOOR AIR QUALITY OF THE DOJO WITH A WELL THOUGHT-OUT AND ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE DESIGN

Depending on the type of structure, it is sometimes difficult to preserve the quality of the indoor air, especially in a sports setting. SMC2 favoured eco-materials, such as wood from sustainably managed resources, for the construction of the Avenches dojo. In addition to optimised indoor air circulation, this choice is distinguished by other advantages such as

• Reduced emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
• A hygrometric rate regulated in a perennial and natural way in order to avoid condensation on the cold surfaces and the glass walls.
• The assembly products, treatments and finishes have been rigorously controlled to ensure better indoor air quality.