Folie Architecturale

Montpellier, France

As an urban beacon, lot M2 is the starting point for a network of exceptional sites that will be developed along the tramway lines that criss-cross Montpellier.

Located in the Jardins de la Lironde mixed development zone, it occupies a strategic position as the flagship of the major areas of urban metamorphosis and as a connecting link, providing the first image at the southern entrance to the district.
It’s an opportunity to explore and break out of the template to create a real “Architectural Madness”.

The project is clearly part of a forward-looking approach to housing in the city. The play of different layers that stack up and link the high and low points in a gentle and playful way makes it a place for meetings and leisure.

The “pedestrian volume” plays an important role in the “active” base and the practices proposed for the new forecourt.

A real unifying element, the floor gives coherence to the project. It follows the natural level, is deformed, transformed, accommodates a variety of practices, guides and accompanies residents, visitors and the curious… and becomes home. The “garden floors” wrap around the edges of the homes, contributing to the feeling of living differently, in close contact with the outside environment.

Program
Construction of 68 private housing + retail

Localisation
Les Jardins de la Lironde
ZAC Port-Marianne
Montpellier, France

Schedule
Competition: 2013

Client
Les Villégiales

Project management
Lead architect: Hamonic+Masson & Associés, associate architect: MN-Lab

Floor Area
2 376 m²