Z5 / Christophe Gulizzi Architecte

Architects: Christophe Gulizzi Architecte
Area: 3,000 m²
Year: 2011
Photography: Philippe Ruault, Lisa Ricciotti, Christian Michel, Luc Boegly
City: Aix-en-Provence
Country: France

Z5, designed by Christophe Gulizzi Architecte in Aix-en-Provence, is a 3000 m² facility dedicated to 5-a-side football. Completed in 2011, the project features seven pitches—four outdoor and three indoor—along with a variety of amenities that support both athletic and social activities. The black concrete building, central to the design, symbolizes the presence of a number 10 player, and its layout emphasizes a gradual discovery of the site, creating an emotionally charged experience that reflects the aura of ZZ.

The Z5 facility is thoughtfully organized across multiple levels to cater to different needs. The ground floor hosts the reception area, an Adidas boutique, a restaurant, and a social area, fostering a communal atmosphere. The basement is dedicated to changing rooms, while the first floor houses 1,000 m² of fitness suites and a seawater spa, which includes two pools, a Turkish bath, and a sauna. The second floor is reserved for management offices and a sports doctor’s suite, ensuring comprehensive support for both players and staff.

The site, an asparagus field located between Luynes prison and the American Cemetery near Aix-en-Provence, is on the edge of the industrial estates of Milles. The area has protected status due to its proximity to Château de Lenfant, an 18th-century building, and must adhere to regulations by the Architectes des Bâtiments de France, concerning alignment and size. The plot marks the urban boundary of the town.

The Z5 project embodies significant symbolic value, representing dreams, identity, and emotions. The design is not merely about aesthetics but is a metaphysical exploration of whether ZZ can serve as an architectural model. Entering the Z5 universe is an emotionally charged experience, akin to meeting a childhood idol.

The project’s design has a dual responsibility: it must root itself in the local context while reflecting the aura of ZZ. The approach to the site is staged, emphasizing a gradual discovery of the main black concrete building, which acts as the central focal point, similar to how a number 10 player commands the pitch. The design aims to inspire awe in children, leaving them with a lasting impression of having encountered their hero.