Synthèse – sports shoe innovation & experience centre in Pantin, Paris

The sports shoe industry is being transformed by digital manufacturing methods like CNC knitting machines and 3D printers. These technologies revolutionise product development, reduce manual labour, accelerate processes, and facilitate innovative designs. The new building serves as a representation of the brand, showcasing customised shoe manufacturing and establishing a connection with customers.

The design incorporates a gyroid as the fundamental geometric shape, enabling the integration of various functions and levels of the site. It creates a walkable spatial experimental landscape, where the floor, wall, and ceiling dissolve into a seamless space. Similar to the mass customisation of sports shoes, parametric construction elements are utilised, with their individual parts based on analogies within a consistent design principle optimised for digital manufacturing methods.

The building functions as a synthesis of a sports shoe innovation centre, digital production facility, retail space, and indoor sports centre, providing an immersive experience. Its location promotes collaboration by bridging the gap between urban and suburban areas, and complementing existing sports infrastructure.

With the incorporation of open innovation processes, industry 4.0 principles and gamification, the building engages visitors in the entire product cycle through playful experiences. A variety of sports areas, interactive test courts and an indoor running track allow visitors to test and evaluate their shoes, measure performance, compete with others and earn rewards. Customers can contribute to product development through interactive terminals and smart devices, while the entire value chain is interconnected in an automated system. The building pushes the boundaries of what is technically feasible, employing digital design methods, innovative materials, and optimisation tools.