Sainte Geneviève des Bois is located in the Essonne department, just 34 kilometers from Paris. The Olivier Leonhardt Media Library project was initiated by the local government to provide cultural engagement opportunities for the community. To replace an abandoned market in the heart of the “U de Saint Hubert” neighborhood—a residential area facing social, cultural, and economic challenges—a creative competition was launched.
The surrounding landscape and architecture make a strong impression. The project seeks to transform the local urban environment into a prominent cultural hub, acting as a catalyst for the city. The building’s location integrates the entrance plaza with the main hall, creating a covered area that fosters civic interaction.
Set amidst surrounding trees, the building invites visitors to reflect on the region’s plant heritage. Its micro-perforated façade acts as a filter, protecting the interior atmosphere while blurring the boundaries between inside and outside.
The media library follows a bidirectional grid aligned with the urban fabric. The orthogonal grid offers modularity, adaptability, and flexibility within the library’s spaces. Meanwhile, the roof’s diagonal deformation breaks the ground plane’s rigidity and links the entrance with pedestrian flows from the nearby station and school.
The building’s metal structure features smooth, lightweight contours that enhance its plasticity. Interior spaces are organized around courtyards, with double-height volumes ensuring visual continuity between areas. The atrium includes an elegant staircase that connects the lobby to workspaces, fostering a relaxed and inspiring atmosphere.
Natural material textures are preserved throughout the interior design, resulting in a clean and simple aesthetic. A central structural wall of exposed concrete maximizes insulation on the south-facing side. Walls and ceilings are clad with plywood, enhancing sound insulation and adding warmth. Flexible systems, such as movable walls and retractable stands in auditoriums, contribute to a welcoming environment.
Project Drawings
△ Aerial View
△ First Floor Plan
△ Second Floor Plan
△ Section Diagram
△ Section Diagram
△ Detailed Structural Drawing
Project Information
Architects: Calmm Architecture, Archi5
Area: 4,872 m²
Project Year: 2022
Photographer: Sergio Grazia
Design Team: Archi5, CALMM Architecture
Owner: SORGEM for Cœur d’Essonne Agglomération
Environmental Engineers: Oasis Environmental Engineers
Acoustic Engineer: Cap Horn Solutions
Landscape Designer: Acte 2 Paysage
VRD: CL Infra
Location: Sainte Geneviève des Bois, France
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