Category: Le Mag SMC2

SMC2, as a specialist in the design and construction of covered sports and leisure structures, masters the art of the textile membrane. For unique projects, our team has enriched its know-how by mastering parametric architecture.

Parametric architecture in a few words

Definition

Parametric design is an innovative approach to digital design, thanks to the possibility of generating complex geometric shapes by exploiting a large amount of data, whether environmental, acoustic, structural, social or urban. As Aurélie Simone, a specialist in parametric design, puts it: “Parametric architecture is an innovative design method using CAD software based on algorithms. It allows the creation of complex and new forms or structures, in a simple and optimised way, while ensuring their feasibility.

Origins

The notion of parametric architecture – also called parametric design – is quite recent. It was propelled by the emergence of digital tools and 3D software. It has revolutionised the stylistic references and representations of traditional architecture by offering architectures the possibility of proposing free, non-standard forms and complex structures.

The term “parametric” comes from mathematics. It refers to parametric equations that use a number of parameters and variables.

Traditional modelling VS parametric modelling

To quote Aurélie Simone again, traditional design methods consist of “adding up elements of the project to create a whole. During the development of the project, technical constraints are added. The parametric approach, on the other hand, goes much further. It is about “defining the relationship between the elements that will create the whole and the identity of the project”.

The DNA of the parametric concept is the algorithmic system. If the constraints and parameters change then the result adapts while remaining true to the DNA.

The benefits of parametric design

Parametric architecture allows for creative freedom. It allows you to add a strong architectural signature to your creations, by proposing complex shapes and providing an answer to various needs sometimes subject to precise constraints. Modelling can be easily adapted to potential changes in the project. Finally, parametric architecture allows an optimisation of the use of materials and thus grants a better control of costs.

An example of parametric architecture by SMC2

Thanks to the parametric method, SMC2 was able to design and build a unique textile façade for the Mon Grand Plaisir shopping centre in Plaisir in the Yvelines. The textile architecture allowed the creation of fluid and aerial forms. The shopping centre thus stands out from other buildings by becoming a fine example of contemporary architecture. The result is artistic, pure and slender. The project was completed in a timely and cost effective manner by combining digital tools with the artistic skills of the architects in charge of the project.

The dry construction sector represents an evolution of the building sector towards greater productivity thanks to the use of light materials, such as steel or wood, assembled mechanically.

 

WET VS. DRY CONSTRUCTION

In comparison, the “wet” sector corresponds to the traditional sector, based on the use of concrete and cement (in blocks, cast, combined with metal, etc.). This type of construction requires a drying time that slows down the building site. It consumes a lot of energy, both for the manufacture of the materials and for their transport.

The dry process does not require water. It therefore allows for environmentally friendly manufacturing. Construction is quieter and cleaner. Construction times are reduced as there is no need for drying time for materials (concrete, cement, plaster).

 

THE ADVANTAGES OF THE DRY PROCESS

 

• Reduced construction time

The absence of a drying time for the materials avoids the risks of faulty workmanship encountered when this stage of the wet process is poorly managed.

In addition, the wood or steel parts can be adjusted and pre-assembled in the factory. This reduces the assembly time on site, which is less dependent on the weather.
The closing of the roof (air and watertightness) is therefore quicker and the finishing work (wallpapering, plastering, flooring) can be carried out immediately.

 

• Economical construction

The prefabrication of the parts and the reduction of the construction time make it possible to make significant savings on materials, transport, but also on labour.
In addition, the dry process does not require bulky machinery. It is therefore the solution for constructing or raising a building that is difficult to access, in the middle of the city for example.

 

• Quality materials

Dry materials offer a wide variety of arrangements, colours and combinations with other materials. Wood is renewable. Wood construction combines aesthetics and longevity of the building. They allow the design of modular and easily adaptable spaces, while maintaining effective acoustic and thermal insulation.

 

• A low impact on the environment

Pre-assembly in the workshop reduces noise, dust and pollution on the construction site. This reduction in the nuisance caused by the work is much appreciated by the neighbourhood. In addition, the small amount of waste and the reduced water consumption make it a low-pollution construction site that can be cleaned up quickly. A dry construction site therefore has a lower “carbon footprint” than a wet construction site, especially with the use of wood, the only construction material with a positive CO2 balance.

 

Dry construction is a relatively new construction method in France, but it is increasingly used because of its financial, aesthetic and economic advantages. 

In this period of the Tour de France where cycling is in the spotlight, we are proud to announce that we are supporting the paracyclist Florian Bouziani. A few weeks before the world championships, let’s zoom in on this french athlete who has taken his revenge on life.

An ironclad determination

Originally a motocross enthusiast, Florian’s life was turned upside down in 2013 when he was caught in a fire that destroyed the motorbike workshop where he worked. With 80% of his body burnt, he was left paralysed in his feet and with his right index finger amputated.

But with a strong determination and an iron will, Florian fights to give a meaning to his life and finds refuge in cycling. Beginning this sport in a purely therapeutic perspective during his rehabilitation sessions, Florian blossomed little by little in this discipline which ended up becoming his passion. Progressing in this sport became a real objective in his life.

He redoubled his efforts and trained intensively until he took part in his first competitions at the end of 2018. In 2019, he surprised everyone by coming second at the Corridonia World Cup in Italy in the time trial, which then became his favourite event. After hard training and total dedication to para-cycling, Florian became world champion in time trial in Portugal in 2021.

A wealth of sporting news

After this world championship title, Florian is more motivated than ever to demonstrate his sporting performance. Will 2022 be the year of renewal? One thing is certain, it has started well with the first major title in May 2022: European Para-cycling Champion in the time trial event. A gold medal won in Austria with a 50-second lead over the runner-up!

This should give Florian confidence for the next two big competitions that await him in Canada in August: the World Cup and the Para-cycling World Championships. Will he manage to keep the rainbow jersey, the symbol of victory? In any case, that’s all we hope for!

No rest for Florian! Once back from Canada, he will have to train for a new competition that will take place in France in October: the 2022 Para-cycling Track World Championships.

All these competitions serve a double purpose for the athlete: to ensure his status as world number 1 and to obtain the best results to be selected for the 2024 Olympic Games!

Partners who support him

By supporting him, SMC2 helps Florian to make a living from his passion. This support allows him to travel to the different championships, to training sessions but also to maintain his equipment (bike, shoes adapted to his handicap…).

The whole SMC2 team is behind Florian and supports him in his sporting exploits. We admire the values of courage and perseverance that he shows on a daily basis. Congratulations Florian, we wish you all the best!

Basketball, with its status as the second most practiced team sport in France, is particularly popular in France. With 2.5 million players, it has attracted young and old, men and women. And where there is a need for popular sport, there is also a need for suitable infrastructure. SMC2 has understood this and puts its know-how at the service of basketball players by designing and building basketball courts in France and abroad.

MAKING BASKETBALL COURTS PLACES OF EXCHANGE AND ENCOUNTER

At SMC2, we design and build outdoor covered basketball courts. Our objective? To protect sportsmen and women from bad weather and the sun while allowing them to have a court open to the outside, with free access.

To do this, we build sports halls to house the basketball court. With a wooden frame and a textile membrane cover, the court is shaded and protected. The wood allows the infrastructure to better integrate into its environment. The textile membrane provides natural light while reflecting the sun’s rays to prevent it from becoming too hot under the fabric.

Without a façade, the site is accessible to everyone at all times. It fulfils its role as a place for exchanges and meetings around a common passion.

MULTI-SPORTS HALLS ADAPTED TO THE PRACTICE OF BASKETBALL

For those who prefer to play indoors, our gymnasiums and sports complexes are fully adapted to the practice of basketball. With our global turnkey solutions, we meet your needs by constructing buildings allowing the practice of the desired sports, including basketball. Floor plans, basketball baskets: find all the equipment for matches in the best conditions.

For a unique experience, think Fit Arena! Our connected multi-sports hall adapts according to the sport booked thanks to its motorised equipment. From the app or the website, book your basketball slot and invite your friends. The room automatically configures itself a few minutes before the start of the session. All you have to do is enjoy your game, with tablets and big screens for live scoring. Film your best moments with the on-site cameras and relive them through the videos available in replay from your account.

SMC2, A COMMITTED BASKETBALL COURT BUILDER

Our achievements reflect our motto “No CO2, Low Energy“. Whether it is the construction of basketball courts, sports complexes, connected multi-sports halls or gymnasiums, we take care to use as little energy as possible and to favour the use of noble materials.

Wood and textile membranes are therefore our precious allies in the design and construction of sports buildings to limit their ecological footprint, ensure their durability over time and guarantee their integration into the local landscape.

On 24 June, the tennis complex in Ennezat was inaugurated, a tennis hall designed and built by SMC2!

The tennis complex in a few words

This tennis complex consists of two indoor courts, two outdoor courts and a clubhouse.

SMC2 was responsible for the construction of the indoor tennis hall, a new project that showcases our team’s expertise. With these two new courts, players will be able to practice in the best conditions in a bright tennis hall with a regulated atmosphere and temperature.

The clubhouse also completes the indoor tennis facilities. It offers all the comfort to the spectators so that they can enjoy the match in progress. The windows overlooking the court allow the spectators to see the athletes while sitting comfortably and enjoying a snack for those who wish to do so.

The construction system of this tennis hall

This comfort for the sportsman is possible thanks to our construction system. The structure is a mixed wood and steel frame. The roof of this tennis complex is made of a textile membrane, as are the façades. Part of the facades (10m²) is also screen-printed. The combination of these noble materials allows sportsmen and women to practice in a building with a low ecological footprint, with natural light thanks to the translucency of the textile membrane. The hygrothermal system and the efficient ventilation enhance the comfort of the sportsman, who can play in the hall all year round without suffering from excessive temperature differences.

The tennis hall has been constructed with a resin sports floor, which gives the players a better grip and allows them to strengthen their footing. The flat surface of the floor contributes to the comfort of the game and guarantees the quality of the ball’s rebound.

A tennis complex that saves money

The Ennezat town hall can thus benefit from a tennis complex that is aesthetically pleasing, environmentally responsible and also economical. The lighting and thermal characteristics of this tennis hall limit operating costs with reduced use of artificial lighting and heating. By following SMC2’s advice, significant savings can be made. A 12-degree temperature is sufficient to provide thermal comfort for the players. With sports clothing adapted to the season, the physical effort made by the body during tennis matches is enough for the players not to be cold in winter. On the other hand, in the summer, the white colour of the textile membrane coupled with good ventilation prevents the temperature in the hall from rising too high.

For more information on our indoor tennis construction know-how or on our sports buildings in general, contact us! The sales team dedicated to your region will be happy to answer your questions.

A team that has grown…

Over the years, SMC2 has strengthened its workforce. In full growth for several years, we surround ourselves with varied profiles to maintain this trend.

And 2022 is no exception to the rule! Since the beginning of the year, new recruits have joined the company’s various departments. Economists, works assistants, communication assistants, fitters, works engineers, R&D engineers, technical sales staff, etc. SMC2 is expanding its teams to consolidate its position as leader in the European market, to ensure quality of service, a diversity of offers and to increase its reputation.

…and continues to grow

And it’s not over yet! Two fitters joined the SMC2 team at the end of June to strengthen the works department. Their main task is to assemble the structures on site in compliance with quality and safety regulations.

The sales department is also expanding. On the export side, a business engineer in England will join SMC2 in July to work alongside our English business developer. In France, we are looking for a sales assistant to work closely with our business engineer in Ile-de-France. The latter would also be delighted to welcome a technical sales representative to help him respond to commercial opportunities in this sector.

A company that evolves with its employees

As you can see, SMC2 has a great dynamic. The company evolves over time, according to trends and opportunities, but also thanks to the impetus of its employees. We are expanding in France and abroad with business engineers in England, Germany and Canada.

We are now a major player in the market for the design and construction of sports and leisure structures. Tennis halls, padel courts, grandstands, football pitches, sports complexes, etc., we build sports buildings that place the comfort of players and spectators at the heart of our priorities.
Our play areas are designed to be elevated, in particular with our play towers, to allow young and old alike to gain height, enjoy the sensations and share a great moment with the family in a multigenerational infrastructure.

Shared values

The SMC2 team shares values of challenge, cohesion and innovation, but above all ecological and environmental values. We are all driven by the desire to act to protect the environment. This is why we promote building systems with a wooden frame and a textile membrane roofing for low environmental impact projects that fight against global warming in urban areas.

SMC2 is a designer and builder of multi-sports facilities. We take care to offer you infrastructures that meet the needs of various sports: tennis, football, basketball, padel… We master the art of building halls dedicated to certain sports (such as tennis halls or 5-a-side football pitches) as well as the art of building multi-sports gymnasiums.

Expertise in the construction of multi-purpose gymnasiums

Year after year, SMC2 enriches its expertise in the construction of dynamic sports halls. Since 2003, our team has been working daily to respond effectively to your needs by combining simplicity and functionality.

Our gymnasiums allow the practice of multiple sports, both team and racquet: basketball, handball, volleyball, badminton, futsal, etc. They are built with a wooden or mixed wood and steel structure with a textile membrane roof. You benefit from a sports structure with a low environmental impact and optimal natural light. The translucency of the textile membrane allows the sun’s rays to illuminate the sports field evenly and harmoniously.

A gymnasium designed for the comfort of the athlete

As a gymnasium builder, SMC2 thinks about the comfort of sportsmen and women in summer and winter. That is why we favour wood and textile membranes as the main building materials.

Wood does not store cold and heat, while the textile membrane reflects the sun’s rays. The façades of the gymnasium can be opened for natural ventilation or closed to prevent heat loss. We also install a hygrothermal regulation system within the sports complex. This system allows us to have a regulated temperature in the gymnasium. Heating in winter is now an option rather than an obligation! These are undeniable savings for the operator.

An eco-responsible gymnasium

In a context of urgency and climate change, it seems essential to us to rethink our sports buildings in order to promote the construction of sports complexes that fit into the local landscape by limiting the negative environmental impact and avoiding over-consumption of energy.

The textile membrane we use has an albedo rate close to 1, meaning that it reflects the sun’s rays, thus preventing the building from overheating and helping to combat rising temperatures in urban areas.

During the winter, we recommend that dynamic sports halls are not heated or that the heating temperature is limited to 12°C. The heat produced by the body during sports effort prevents the athlete from feeling cold. In addition, the athlete adapts to the temperature constraints by the clothing he or she adopts.

We have several gymnasium projects to our credit. To discover our know-how in concrete terms, browse through our projects: https://www.smc2-construction.com/realisations/gymnases/

 

For the extension of the Bordeaux Métropole waste recovery centre (Bègles – 33), SEG-FAYAT called on SMC2 to produce the building’s roof and facades in textile membrane.

An innovative textile membrane installation technique

Over a surface area of 5390m², our team installed a textile membrane roof over a metal framework. The innovation of this project lies in the installation technique used: tensioning by lacing. The tensioned envelope was not made up of a single fabric but of several 14m x 14m fabric modules, laid one by one using a mobile crane. SMC2 had to manufacture a specific assembly jig for this project.

 

Our team also installed 3360m² of textile membrane for the facades of the sorting centre extension.

The choice of the textile membrane

The textile membrane was chosen for the sorting centre because it has many advantages. Its translucency allows for natural, homogeneous and harmonious lighting within the building. Its flexibility prevents the reverberation of sound, allowing acoustics to be controlled. The atmosphere can be regulated thanks to temperature and hygrometry management.

The sorting centre’s employees are thus assured of better working conditions within this extension.

SMC2’s know-how extended to various fields

.Although SMC2’s expertise was originally applied to the field of sports, it also extends to the tertiary sector, industry and games. A textile membrane dome for a cement factory, a timber frame canopy for a waste disposal site, work offices for a company, playgrounds for a local authority… numerous projects illustrate the extent of our know-how. Feel free to browse our website to find out more.