Façade renewal and infrastructure resilience on the Île des Impressionnistes

The demolition of building K revealed a long, previously hidden elevation, which prompted a broader architectural response: rather than treating this façade in isolation, the project proposes a unified architectural language for the entirety of buildings L/M.

This approach allows the structures to act as a coherent volume and initiates a more deliberate urban expression on the island, currently marked by visual dissonance.

The demolition of building K—previously attached to buildings L and M—unveiled a long, unarticulated façade, prompting a broader design response. Rather than addressing the exposed elevation in isolation, the project reimagines the entire L/M envelope.

The new façades are clad in horizontally laid white folded metal panels with a triangular wave profile, integrating sliding windows and white aluminium brise-soleils that enhance thermal performance while reinforcing linearity. The rooftop features new vaulted skylights in thermally broken PVC, significantly improving interior daylighting. The treatment extends to the northwest façade of building N, ensuring visual continuity across the site.

The former footprint of building K is now a landscaped parking area, introducing planting and permeability to a previously dense industrial zone. This transformation sets a precedent for future evolutions of the site, establishing a contemporary, unified language amid an eclectic built environment.

In parallel, a new 334 m² technical building (Poste P4–P5) has been constructed to house vital electrical infrastructure—previously vulnerable to flooding due to low elevation. Raised 2 metres above ground to exceed PPRI flood thresholds, the compact single-storey structure accommodates high- and low-voltage systems, a generator, and fuel storage. Its recessed concrete base affirms its infrastructural role, while a perimeter walkway wrapped in vertical pale metal brise-soleils brings rhythm and cohesion in dialogue with adjacent façades.

The removal of outdated technical posts (P5 and P6) freed additional ground for landscaping, further softening the site’s character. Parking spaces lost to new construction were reallocated on-site without expanding the project’s footprint.