This project, constructed entirely from wood and recycled biomaterials, is situated at the base of a 1960s tower, perfectly fulfilling the vision to redefine the Loire district in Vélizy city. After removing the commercial floor that connected the two buildings, a new floor emerged within the renovated complex. The naturally undulating landscape has been restored to its original form.
The redevelopment of the neighborhood centers around a landscaped basin and a new axis, along which all shop windows are crafted from wood (Block Landscape Design: Urbicus). Previously, the project consisted of cellars located next to an underground parking garage. These spaces have been revitalized to create a new underground level that houses dual public facilities: a day care center and a toy library.
The design of the building’s fifth facade allows for the creation of a vibrant new “soil” layer in front of the apartments above. This soil composite layer reaches up to one meter in height and supports the planting of real trees. Additionally, the existing building’s exterior walls at ground level were wrapped in matching materials to eliminate any visual interruptions and to unify the overall aesthetic.
To enhance the background design, materials salvaged during the initial demolition were directly reused. For instance, slate slabs and tree trunks were repurposed and incorporated into the new construction. Inside, the space opens up with a double-height elevated area, offering views of both the upper level and the courtyard.
The public areas feature Comblanchien limestone flooring, extending into the lobby. Its subtle pink hue also forms a mineral base on the most exposed surfaces, adding warmth and texture to the interior.
The exterior walls are shielded by a grid of poplar battens spaced every 45cm, complemented by copper-colored zinc panels. From the outside, the building appears solid and opaque, while from the inside, it feels open and inviting.
The children’s area is designed to be gentle and flowing, situated between a private courtyard and a play garden. All sunshades are constructed from wood, which also serves as a structural material. These shades provide protection while maintaining an unobstructed view for the children.
The support beams, linear light strips, and skylights work together to direct the sightline outward, creating a continuous floor and an open, flowing space. Wood is used both as a hanging and supporting element, taking on various forms throughout the design.
Wooden furniture enhances the indoor atmosphere, while spherical and circular light fixtures accentuate the unique spatial qualities.
Project Drawings
△ General Layout Plan
△ First Floor Plan
△ Second Floor Plan
△ Section Diagram
△ Detailed Drawing
△ Detailed Drawing
△ Analysis Chart
Project Information
Architect: a+Samuel Delmas Architects
Area: 1075 m²
Project Year: 2023
Photographer: Thibaut Voisin
Suppliers: Lighting, Marmoleneum, Prismo Gold, Solid Wood Grill Ceiling
Design Director: Samuel Delmar
Project Management: Guillaume Trubert
Project Design Management: Giuseppe Tasquier
Project Construction Management: Marine Piboin
Design Team (Project Development): Giuseppe Tasquier, Marine Piboin
Competition Project Manager: Giuseppe Tasquier
Design and Development Project Manager: Guillaume Trubert
Structural Engineer: Batiself
Fluid Engineer: B-52
Acoustic Design: META
Environmental Engineer: Étamine
Ecologist: VPEAS
Location: Vélizy-Villacoublay, France
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