Glide under a futuristic shell imagined by one of France’s most illustrious architects? That’s the kind of feat tucked away in Évry-Courcouronnes, in Essonne. From 16 to 18 October 2026, the Journées nationales de l’architecture return to blow a fresh wind of discovery across the Île-de-France region. This major public event invites kids and grown-ups alike to view our everyday landscapes with new eyes, to understand the technical choices of builders, and to step inside facilities that are sometimes underappreciated. In the very heart of the Évry basin, the patinoire François Le Comte proves that a municipal complex can also become a genuine work of contemporary art.
Inaugurated in the mid-1970s within the old new town of Évry, the facility bears the mark of Jean Nouvel, then just starting his career. This building sits within the movement of the 1970s modern architecture, a era defined by technical audacity, the prominence of raw volumes, and the loosening of urban functions. The structure stands out for its expansive low profile, compact volumes, and a pronounced use of reinforced concrete and metal, conceived to harmoniously weave the freshness of the runway into the nascent urban fabric.
The site’s daily mission is to welcome figure skating practice sessions, the ice hockey games of the Evry Red Skins, and recreational skating for all families in Grand Paris Sud.
Guided tours of the François-Le Comte ice rink in Évry-Courcouronnes
The François-Le Comte Ice Rink is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and opens its doors for guided tours led by a professional guide, as part of the 2026 National Architecture Days.
Accompanied by a professional guide, you will learn how the rink operates, its history, and its role since it opened in 1975.
The behind-the-scenes areas of the rink are part of the visit! Indeed, the technical rooms that are usually off-limits to the public are also included in the itinerary.
The tour will also offer a fresh look at this contemporary building, highlighting the features that earned it the “Remarkable Contemporary Architecture” label in 2020.
Participation requirements: Limited to 25 participants - Free | Booking required - patrimoine@grandparissud.fr
Timings: Saturday, October 17, 2026 — 10:00–11:30, 11:30–13:00
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Dates and Opening Time
On October 17, 2026
Location
François Le Comte Ice Rink
Allée de l'Agora
91000 Evry
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