South VIP box at the ice rink, Porrentruy

The project
The facility comprises nine VIP boxes, each seating up to ten people, and an open area that can accommodate around twenty guests. The boxes are discreetly integrated between the trusses of the existing roof. This ingenious arrangement makes it possible to make optimum use of the available space while preserving the visual lightness of the structure. Spectators can enjoy an exceptional view of the ice rink in a cozy and exclusive environment, where wood and glass create an elegant and contemporary atmosphere.

The construction method
The design principle is based on a delicate interplay between the existing structure and the new boxes, which are suspended from the roof trusses by means of a metal profile construction that also serves as supports for the floors. The floors of the boxes are made of ribbed wooden panels, while the cantilevered rows of seats are made of cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels.

The challenge
One challenge was to hang the boxes and transfer the additional loads to the existing trusses. The trusses were reinforced at the joints by gluing and screwing spruce boards to ensure stability while maintaining aesthetics.