Different Scales. Different Contexts.
Brise-Vent Havre Harbor Museum
Designed by Haisheng Xu, Dingdong Tang, and Zehui Li of LYT-X Studio in the United States, Brise-Vent Havre Harbor Museum showcases an interdisciplinary approach that honours historical significance while embracing forward-thinking architecture. The project transforms a historic industrial structure in Le Havre, France, into a vibrant 31,000-square-metre cultural hub featuring exhibition spaces, workshops, an auditorium, and conference areas. Brise-Vent Havre Harbor Museum is a Red Dot winner in the Architecture category at the Red Dot Award: Design Concept 2025. The design project blends preserved heritage with contemporary innovation to create a landmark that reconnects the waterfront with the city, embodying Le Havre's evolving identity through thoughtful architecture.
From Industrial Relic to Cultural Beacon
Once a historic concrete sail-like structure no longer serving its original industrial purpose, the site offered a valuable opportunity to reclaim and revitalise maritime heritage for contemporary public life. The design honours the existing building by preserving its identity and essence while introducing dynamic new architectural elements, transforming this historically significant landmark into an active cultural destination that bridges Le Havre's past with its evolving urban identity.
Inspired by Fluid Motion
Drawing inspiration from swimmers diving and ascending, the project features an iconic extended curved roof that flows gracefully over the site. This sculptural form serves as both a protective canopy and a grand observation platform, offering panoramic views of Le
A Central Hub for Connection
A central plaza divides the sweeping roof, creating an open social and cultural hub that invites visitors to gather and engage. Strategically placed apertures channel natural light and ventilation into the spaces below, blurring the boundaries between indoors and outdoors while enhancing comfort and energy efficiency.
Bridging Heritage and Tomorrow
The Brise-Vent Havre Harbor Museum exemplifies how architecture can breathe new life into forgotten sites, transforming challenges of preservation and context into opportunities for connection and renewal. By weaving together fluid forms, natural integration, and public accessibility, this award-winning concept not only redefines a historic landmark but also inspires a more inclusive, vibrant urban future along Le Havre's waterfront.
Ideas that shape the future: Red Dot Award: Design Concept 2026
The Red Dot Award: Design Concept is aimed at visionary designers who develop answers to tomorrow’s challenges with bold ideas and forward-looking concepts. Submissions during the regular registration period are possible until 18 March 2026, with the late registration period running until 29 April 2026. Now is the right time to submit innovative concepts, highlight new perspectives and actively participate in shaping the world of tomorrow.
