LAN architecture regenerates lormont with reflective st. hilaire residential towers

LAN architecture has completed the ambitious regeneration of the génicart district in lormont with their urban development project, near bordeaux, france. consisting primarily of collective and social housing, it accommodates roughly 10,500 people and 50% of lormont’s population. organized around four different residences, saint-hilaire, leroy, la boétie and villon, the housing units are subtly distinguished from one another, along with the surrounding public space. through the use of pathways and a more progressive hierarchy of public and private, the presence of unused collective space is reduced.

the new children’s playground creates an interaction zone for the young population in the neighborhood
image © julien lanoo (also main image)

the three towers of st. hilaire is defined by its reflective envelope, a bright plaza and a playground area. the façades, on one side, space has been expanded to create loggias, balconies and additional rooms- meanwhile, thermally insulating the building, the paneled exterior has the option to slide open. the esplanade of st. hilaire has been completely re-landscaped, where the public outdoor space focuses on the children; creating an area for interaction and community between the younger inhabitants. formed using timber and perforated metal sheet cladding, a three level structure called ‘quartier général’ sits in front of the towers, the first two tiers acting as a children’s playground and the top, operating as a viewing platform.

each residential group has a distinctive entity and follows the strengths of the plot area
image © julien lanoo

image © julien lanoo

the play structure is formed using timber and perforated metal sheet cladding
image © julien lanoo

image © julien lanoo

the towers are characterized by patterns and the color change depending on the time of day
image © julien lanoo

the panels forms balconies and are able to slide open
image © julien lanoo

the façade has a reflective quality, enabling it to change color
image © julien lanoo

the towers at night
image © julien lanoo