ARCHITECTURAL FOCUS
ground level, offering a total of 8,900 m ². It balances density with abundant greenery and open space at all levels, providing a sustainable and harmonious alternative to urban sprawl.
DIVERSITY AS A SOCIAL LINK- A unique intergenerational approach shapes the overall narrative. The central garden, where all circulation routes converge, connects the various programmesnursery, senior living, residential units, and offices- even welcoming the general public during the day. In the same spirit of community-building, the green spaces and common areas are designed to encourage interaction among diverse groups and foster vibrant, serendipitous encounters. INTERCONNECTION OF PROGRAMMES AND ARCHITECTURAL RESPONSE- Arborescence blends seamlessly into its exceptional site, with its three façades articulating a diversity of uses. The project balances technical requirements and regulations to provide dedicated access to each function while creating generous common spaces, such as the hall and central garden.
The spaces are organised in interlocking layers: the ground floor houses offices, a nursery, and senior amenities; the podium is dedicated to senior living; and the upper levels accommodate residential units, an urban cottage, and a wellness centre. INTERGENERATIONAL SPACES- The programmatic diversity of Arborescence creates a vibrant, nonlinear sense of place. Common spaces become meeting points where seniors, children, adults, and students connect serendipitously. Similar to the multi-generational homes that were once prevalent, the development fosters organic opportunities for nurturing empathy. DIVERSITY OF HOUSING TYPES- Arborescence’ s unique morphology, inspired by the shape of a tree, creates a myriad of spaces filled with air and light. The housing units radiate around a central‘ trunk,’ benefiting from multiple orientations, crafted views, and natural cross-ventilation. The two‘ arms’ to the East and West house senior units, with patios that seem to float among the century-old plane trees overlooking the Maine. This innovative design blends diversity, comfort, and harmony with the environment.
• Architects: Crespy & Aumont Architectes, WY-TO architects- www. wy-to. com
• Area: 8200 m ²
• Photographs: Juan Cardona, Svend Andersen
• Manufacturers: AutoDesk, Schüco, Woodenha Industries
• Lead Architects: Pauline Gaudry, Yann Follain
www. wy-to. com
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