A large glass spheroid goes up at the end of Seguin Island, by the River Seine, marking a new cultural landmark west of the metropolitan area of Paris. These grounds, birthplace of the automobile industry in France, are transformed into the flagship of an area known as the Valley of Culture within a master plan developed by Jean Nouvel. A concrete plinth, which adapts to the geometric limit of the island, contains the whole program of this center for music except for the concert hall that emerges within the glazed geodesic structure. On top of a circular system of rails, a large sail formed by photovoltaic panels changes position throughout the day to capture and control sunlight.

To emphasize its public character, the building is permeable and the roof is accessible through two large staircases located at the ends. Up high, a series of paths cross the green roof, with views of the Seine’s shores. The linear character of the enviroment is transferred to the buildings interior, by means of a longitudinal street that gives access to the different areas: lobby, multifunctional hall, auditorium, recording studios, classrooms, offices, restaurants, and shops.