Grande Armée – l1ve: Redefining the Workplace Through Flexibility and Sustainability
Architectural Restructuring with a Contemporary Vision
This restructuring project represents a strong architectural approach aimed at revitalizing the former modernist headquarters of Peugeot, located near the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Through this transformation, the project introduces a distinctive façade extending 110 meters in length, adding a striking visual presence at the heart of the urban landscape.
Utilizing the Original Structure
On this dynamic site, the existing concrete framework serves as the foundation for developing a new window system. This system is based on a concept that is simple in principle yet highly effective in its outcome; conventional openings alternate with recessed window boxes embedded within the concrete mass at varying depths.
A Visual Rhythm and Thoughtful Movement
Through this configuration, the key elements of contemporary architecture become clearly apparent, such as:
- The architectural rhythm created by the variation in window openings.
- The sense of movement generated by the depth differences.
- The controlled visual system that shapes the façade’s identity.
As a result, the project’s façade gains a strong visual presence and a defined character, expressing the identity of “Grande Armée – l1ve” in a balance between authenticity and renewal.
Architectural Extension Across a Reconfigured Urban Block
The office building, which incorporates an agora space and a conference center, extends across two internal courtyards linking Avenue de la Grande Armée with Rue Pergolèse. This extension is integrated within a perimeter block that has been reshaped by dismantling certain sections and introducing generous green areas, creating an urban fabric that is more open and better connected to its surroundings.
Repurposing the Original Structural Framework
Instead of opting for complete demolition, the project preserves the building’s primary structural skeleton. This approach exemplifies how sustainability can be integrated with design, as reusing the existing framework reduces waste, minimizes environmental impact, and provides a solid base for implementing new architectural solutions.
Neutral and Adaptable Workspaces
As modern work environments continue to evolve, it has become essential to provide spaces capable of accommodating shifting activities. For this reason, the work areas in this project are designed to be usage-neutral and sufficiently flexible to adapt to various functions, whether open-plan offices, meeting rooms, or collaborative zones.
Recycling as a Forward-Looking Strategy
The construction project reflects both the potential and the challenges of recycling, offering valuable lessons in the sustainability of contemporary buildings. A total of 5,165 tons of building waste, equivalent to 92% of the original materials, was recycled, while 80 tons of materials were reused within the building itself, such as the former showroom floors. This significantly reduces the need for new resources and minimizes environmental impact.
Material Simplification to Enhance Sustainability
Throughout the redesign process, composite materials were deliberately avoided in favor of simple components that can be reused later without complex or costly processing. The key materials employed include:
- Wood
- Various types of concrete
- Metals
These materials contribute to a balanced visual and tactile experience, reflecting design quality while adhering to sustainability principles. For detailed specifications, refer to Material Datasheets.
Relying on Renewable Energy Sources
The project incorporates a combination of sustainable energy systems, including:
- Geothermal energy wells
- Rooftop solar panels
- Local thermal energy supplied by the City of Paris, 50% of which is generated from local renewable sources
This diversified energy mix enhances the building’s efficiency and reduces reliance on fossil fuels, underscoring the role of architectural design in supporting environmental sustainability.
Transforming the World of Work into a Living Environment
The project spans 35,000 square meters of gross floor area and redefines the concept of traditional work environments by transforming it into a multi-purpose “cosmos.” Open office structures, along with the former ground-floor showrooms and spacious open areas, collectively create a flexible setting in which conventional desk work occupies only a limited portion of the overall space.
A Multi-Dimensional Architectural Vision
Anne Speicher, Manager of the Paris office at Baumschlager Eberle Architekten, notes that restructuring processes can generate new places with diverse and attractive uses that meet the needs of both today and tomorrow.
The modernist architects Sainsaulieu laid the initial foundations for these design interventions, while Baumschlager Eberle Architekten expanded and enhanced them, highlighting the importance of collaboration between design teams to ensure spatial flexibility and efficiency.
International Recognition of the Project
The project holds significant value in the realm of sustainable architecture, having received the Austrian Green Planet Building Award from the Republic of Austria in 2024, in recognition of its design that blends environmental innovation with architectural functionality.
✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight
The Grande Armée – l1ve project presents several notable strengths, such as the intelligent reuse of the existing concrete structure, the integration of flexible spaces that can be easily adapted, and the selection of recyclable materials, all of which reflect a commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental impact. The project also serves as a practical example of how renewable energy sources can be integrated into an existing structure, offering valuable insights for managing future restructuring projects.
However, several aspects warrant deeper consideration when assessing future scalability:
- The significant contrast between open and enclosed spaces may limit functional efficiency for certain daily activities and raises questions regarding circulation management and privacy within diverse work environments.
- While the use of simple, reusable materials offers environmental benefits, it may pose challenges in meeting long-term maintenance needs or strict technical standards required for specific functions.
- The integration of renewable energy sources is commendable from an environmental standpoint, but it requires careful monitoring to evaluate actual performance against expectations, especially within complex, large-scale office buildings.
This project can be regarded as an important reference for architects and designers of future work environments, as it highlights the balance between innovation and practical limitations. It underscores the importance of thoroughly studying the relationship between form, function, and sustainability before adopting similar solutions in other developments.
