ArchShowcase Sumit Singhal
Sumit Singhal loves modern architecture. He comes from a family of builders who have built more than 20 projects in the last ten years near Delhi in India. He has recently started writing about the architectural projects that catch his imagination. Arborescence in Angers, France by WY-TO architectsJuly 2nd, 2018 by Sumit Singhal
Article source: WY-TO architects ‘Arborescence’ led by the developer Vinci Immobilier is the winning scheme of the international architectural competition ‘Imagine Angers’ on the exceptional site of Gambetta. At the fringe of the historical district and a new urban development, the site enjoys the tranquillity of the Maine river bank. The unique architectural identity of ‘Arborescence’ pays tribute to Angers’ historical heritage, merging the vibrant urban centre to the natural landscape.
Its intergenerational program embodies a contemporary lifestyle offering 15 exceptional residential units, a senior housing residence, a co-working space and a childcare centre. This innovative architecture is the result of the collaboration between Crespy & Aumont Architectes, a locally embedded architectural firm and WY-TO, a promising architectural studio based in Paris and Singapore. The strength of ‘Arborescence’ lies in the union of international influences synthesized into the local urban and social context of Angers. The structure and composition of the project allows flexibility in the appropriation of the unit space and offers possibilities for future evolution. Comfort and variety of spatial choices are key components of the unit design. The distinctive organic and free lines of the lush terraces and planter boxes draw inspiration from the wind breeze through a tree. Directly linked to the ecological corridor of Angers, the central garden is densely vegetated, emerging as an oasis for urban biodiversity. The housing units and its shared facilities (swimming pool, green house, communal living area) enjoy generous natural light, as well as the opportunity to witness the flora & fauna landscapes evolve over the seasons. The garden enhances the living environment of its inhabitants and for Angers’ citizens at large. The subtle use of refined materials locally-sourced allows the contemporary architecture to blend in harmoniously with its surroundings. The amazing 180 degree views overlooking the Maine River and historical cathedral contrast with the serenity of the outdoor spaces, while the modular housing units are juxtaposed with active co-working spaces and childcare centre. This mixed-use project achieves the right balance between the common and private realms. At a larger scale, ‘Arborescence’ contributes to the dynamism of the local economy by creating new job opportunities, supporting start-ups from the ‘French Tech’ movement of Angers and promoting art in unlikely places. Contact WY-TO architects
Categories: Apartments, Child Care, Fitness center, Garden, Housing Development, Offices, Residential, Restaurant, space, Swimming Pool, Terrace |