The simple activity of taking a walk in the evening can easily turn from a relaxing leisurely activity to a dangerous endeavor by removing just one element from the streetscape: public lighting. While not often recognized as defining aspect of urban environments, artificial illumination has played an essential role in defining the character of modern cities. Crime control, the appeal of nightlife, the rise of the shop window, revolutionary movements, utopias, and ideals of social equity are all concepts whose development is tightly linked to the history of public lighting. Technological advancements over the past centuries have continuously shaped the appearance and symbolism of streetlamps. Still, the this element has remains a constant throughout its history.
Paris: The Latest Architecture and News
Sunlight Shadows for Slow but Colorful Façade Movements with Pierre Brault
When transparent facade elements deliberately evolve from the course of the sun, we can explore a fascinating slow movement in stark contrast to the hectic urban street life on the ground. Especially the French designer Pierre Brault has responded to the accelerated rhythm of our society with facade installations that combine the principle of the sundial with colorful pop design. His three-dimensional works made of recycled colored plexiglass mesmerize through simple but dramatic movements of colored shadows. In the interview, Brault explains his inspiration, the experimental approach and his interest in working responsibly with material.
The Centre Pompidou Debuts the Largest Retrospective of Norman Foster’s Work in Paris
In May this year, The Centre Pompidou in Paris will debut the largest retrospective of Norman Foster's work from the past six decades. The exhibition spans nearly 2,200 square meters, exploring the various phases of the renowned architect’s career. Essential works including the Hong Kong and Shanghai Baking Corporation's headquarters (Hong Kong, 1979–1986), the Carré d'Art (Nîmes, 1984–1993), the Hong Kong International Airport (1992–1998), and the Apple Park (Cupertino, United States, 2009-2017) will be on display.
Foster + Partners, the Norman Foster Foundation, and Norman Foster are working to develop and execute the full retrospective. Through the lenses of the seven chosen themes: Nature and Urbanity, Skin and Bones, Vertical City, History and Tradition, Planning and Location, Networks and Mobility, and Future, the exhibition is set to become a full compilation of the architect’s work.
Saint-Louis kindergarten / Janez Nguyen Architects + Linia A&U
-
Architects: Janez Nguyen Architects, Linia A&U
- Area: 600 m²
- Year: 2021
-
Manufacturers: LIGNOTREND, elZinc
-
Professionals: Oregon, Pouget Consultants
Belvedere Stairs / Bertrand Taquet Architectes
-
Architects: Bertrand Taquet Architectes
- Year: 2022
-
Professionals: Général Métal Edition
Wood and Rammed Earth Nursery / Atelier Régis Roudil Architectes
Grand Palais Ephémère / Wilmotte & Associés Sa
-
Architects: Wilmotte & Associés Sa
- Area: 10000 m²
- Year: 2021
-
Manufacturers: Trimo
-
Professionals: Lamoureux, Chabanne Ingénierie, CSD, Socotec, Mathis
Snøhetta Paris Designs New French Asylum Courts That Inspire Safety in Montreuil
Snøhetta, the Norweigan-based architecture and landscape practice, has been chosen to re-imagine the French Asylum and Administrative Courts of Montreuil. The proposal puts together both institutions on one site, surrounded by luscious green areas and a biophilic landscape. Set to begin construction in 2024, and be completed by 2026, the project includes the design of the buildings, landscape, wayfinding, interior, and furniture.
Aire De Repos Shelter / Atelier Craft
-
Architects: Atelier Craft
- Area: 49 m²
- Year: 2021
Etam Paris Store / MVRDV
-
Architects: MVRDV
- Area: 350 m²
- Year: 2020
-
Professionals: Khephren, GAMA Ingenierie, BMF, B27 INGENIERIE, Ateliers AUAV
6 Housing Units in Paris / mobile architectural office
-
Architects: mobile architectural office
- Area: 318 m²
- Year: 2022
-
Professionals: Ginko ingénierie, VPEAS
Adamant Hospital / Seine Design
-
Architects: Seine Design
- Year: 2019
-
Manufacturers: AutoDesk, E.R.M.H.E.S
Urban Brutalism: Unpacking Renée Gailhoustet’s Trailblazing Work in Ivry-Sur-Seine
A few months ago, French architect Renée Gailhoustet was awarded the 2022 Royal Academy Architecture Prize. As housing challenges continue to embattle Paris and other French cities today, Gailhoustet was a timely choice, her body of work in the Paris suburbs – stretching back to the 1960s – still functioning today as compelling case studies to a social housing approach that concurrently embraces community and has a uniqueness of form.
Edison Lite Apartment Building / Manuelle Gautrand Architecture
-
Architects: Manuelle Gautrand Architecture
- Area: 2067 m²
- Year: 2020
-
Professionals: Bureau Bas Smets, VPEAS
The Edge Apartment / Clément Lesnoff-Rocard
-
Architects: Clément Lesnoff-Rocard
- Area: 105 m²
- Year: 2022
-
Manufacturers: FLOS, Maison Pierre Frey, Orac Decor