Mondo

The transformation of 'LE BANVILLE' into 'BANCELLES' will give this prestigious location on the Rue de Courcelles a new lease of life and will contribute to the reintegration of nature within the city. It is this nature and its ecosystem that guide us in an architectural approach that stems from the building's interior, culminating in a rebirth that will reopen the building to the city, bringing new functions, transparency and synergy. Channeling natural light into the development and creating interplays of transparency are therefore the fundamental issues facing this project. The current property complex is a tired, motley mix, with office spaces at different levels and in atypical configurations. The partial demolition of the existing building is a necessary precursor to its subsequent metamorphosis. Following this, we will create an atrium whose skylight transforms it into an island of light. It will become a reflector, radiating out from this spot and breathing new life into its interior spaces. At the heart of this island of light, venues for meeting and sharing (terrace platforms) will alight on footbridges like birds' nests on branches. These 'branch-bridges' will connect the various zones of each floor on both sides of the atrium. They offer multiple viewpoints conducive to employee well-being and provide functional connections between the different floors, giving each a sense of autonomy while connecting them all to the whole. The panoramic glass lifts reminiscent of waterfalls that rise through the atrium provide vertical mobility. The facades of the atrium allow those on the outside to look in, boldly stating the building's new identity to the city beyond.

To address these issues, we have worked on multiple levels simultaneously:

• Developing a landscaped promenade from the basement to the 7th-floor terraces through contrasting environments: from shaded outdoor gardens to sunny terraces.
• Offering green spaces that create a sense of well-being by appealing to the 5 senses. Wild and edible species will be planted to promote biodiversity and to encourage users to take ownership of the landscape. Particular attention will also be devoted to the choice of scented plants.
• Creating a landscape that encourages participation by extending the range of functions that spaces can be used for: relaxation, co-working, solariums, small events, contemplation (of a landscape scene, the view of Paris, etc.), tasting sessions, workshops, entertainment, etc.
• Raising awareness of urban agriculture through green spaces that are easy to use and encourage participation.
• Using a large proportion of indigenous species with a view to preserving biodiversity and for their educational/illustrative merit.

Our inspiration comes from multiple sources, from the undergrowth of Île-de-France for the open-ground patios to sunny pastures for the terraces.