Lebanese architect Lina Ghotmeh says garden tower for Paris will be cradle of biodiversity
by Andrew Manns | 14 Mar 2019
Work on the eye-catching Réalimenter Masséna (Recharge Masséna) project, the spiralling design of which has been likened to both mythological and real-life structures, such as the towers of Babel and Pisa, is now slated to begin in 2020.
The mid-rise, which is expected to implement practices derived from the circular economy model, will serve as a culinary hub, community attraction, and urban farm.
Set to rise near the grounds of the decommissioned Masséna train station in the 13th arrondissement of Paris, the 1,800 sq m property will feature a 750 sq m orchard, apartment units, a theatre, a canteen, and a market.
The building was originally designed by French Lebanese architect Lina Ghotmeh during her partnership with DGT Architectes.
It will now be planned solely by Ghotmeh, who established her own studio, Lina Ghotmeh — Architecture, when the firm disbanded in 2016.
In a statement, the architect called the project a "cradle for new biodiversity" and a "symbol of the diversity of cultures of men and women".
Hertel Investment is spearheading the development of the site, while Bollinger-Grohmann will provide structural engineering oversight and support.
Réalimenter Masséna is one of several urban regeneration initiatives that have been greenlit by organisers for the citywide Reinventer Paris initiative.
The scheme was launched by the mayor in 2014 in a bid to creatively restore Paris's infrastructure and guarantee the city's future ecological viability.
Paris Lina Ghotmeh Masséna
The property will play host to apartment units, a market, a theatre, a cantine, and an extensive public garden. Credit: Courtesy of Lina Ghotmeh
The space will occupy a total area of 1,800 sq m. Credit: Courtesy of Lina Ghotmeh
Réalimenter Masséna is one of several urban regeneration initiatives that have been selected by organisers for the citywide Reinventer Paris initiative. Credit: Courtesy of Lina Ghotmeh
Work on the eye-catching Réalimenter Masséna (Recharge Masséna) project, the spiralling design of which has been likened to both mythological and real-life structures, such as the towers of Babel and Pisa, is now slated to begin in 2020. The mid-rise, which is expected to implement practices derived from the circular economy model, will serve as a culinary hub, community attraction, and urban farm. Set to rise near the grounds of
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"Culture is the beating heart of this project"
Designed to restore neglected land and renew the identity of Iraq’s capital city, Baghdad Sustainable Forests promises a new way of living surrounded by nature. Gensler’s Ian Mulcahay tells us why he thinks the project could become a model for the repair and enhancement of urban centres
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