Rouen Grand Mare / Beckmann-N’Thépé architects

Architect: Beckmann-N’Thépé architects – Aldric Beckmann, Françoise N’thépé
Location: Rouen, France
Project Manager: Alice Auriau
Project Architect: Nicolas Gaudard, Laura Giovannetti
Assistant Architects: Nathanaëlle Baes, Frank-David Barbier, Caroline Huybrechts, Camille Lacoste
Landscape: Florence Sylvos (Paris)
Constructed Area: 950 sqm + patio
Project Year: 2008
Photographs: Stephan Lucas

On the basis of a town plan laid down by Nicolas Michelin agency, and more specifically on the site of an old 60s and 70s housing bar, the building designed by the architects introduces a cosiness that should encourage more dynamic social relations on the housing estate.

The buildings use an architectural style which is in keeping with the neighboring buildings designed by Marcel Lods and the slab constructions. Thereby creating a very horizontal look on the border of two sectors, one being the “rue César Frank” business area and the other the shopping precinct on the square side (cyberbase, doctor’s surgeries, etc.).

Divided by landscape designers Claire Gilot and Daphné Mandel-Bouvard, the planted patio highlights the project’s transparent, fluid, transverse qualities. The 2 plots are synonymous with sobriety, using basis but quality materials: metal for the roof and awning, placed over silk-screen printed glass on the facades.