The project
The Tjibaou Cultural Center is a global icon in timber construction and a celebration of New Caledonia’s Kanak culture in a contemporary form. French President François Mitterrand initiated the project, and its architectural expression is the work of Renzo Piano.
Mathis carried out the execution studies, supplied the glue-laminated timber and metal structures, as well as the cast-metal connection components, and conducted the transport and lifting of the ten pavilions. Located in a cyclone-prone area with demanding climatic conditions, Mathis met an unparalleled engineering and precision challenge, translating the symbolism of traditional structures into an avant-garde architectural language.
A true milestone in the history of engineered wood, the project stands as an international reference and symbol of harmony between culture, architecture, and technical excellence.
