[PARIS] Clichy-Batignolles Eco-District | Sustainable Urban Living in the 17th Arrondissement

Overview​

The Clichy-Batignolles neighborhood, situated in Paris's 17th arrondissement, exemplifies the city's commitment to sustainable and livable urban design. Developed over a former railway yard, this 54-hectare (133-acre) area has been transformed into a dense, green, and walkable community. The district aligns with the '15-minute city' concept, ensuring that residents can access most services within a short walk, bike ride, or transit trip from their homes.


Key Features​

  • Car-Free Streets: The neighborhood prioritizes pedestrians and cyclists, reducing reliance on automobiles and enhancing air quality.
  • Geothermal Heating and Solar Panels: Buildings in the district utilize geothermal energy for heating and are equipped with solar panels, promoting renewable energy use.
  • Mixed-Income Housing: Approximately 70% of the 3,400 homes are designated as mixed-income social housing or rent-controlled units, fostering social diversity.
  • Martin Luther King Park: A 10-hectare park serves as the neighborhood's green centerpiece, featuring native plants, a fruit orchard, playgrounds, and a skatepark.
  • Public Transit Integration: The district is well-connected to public transportation, including metro lines and tramways, facilitating easy access to the rest of the city.


Architectural Highlights​

The eco-district showcases innovative architecture, including the 13-story UNIC building, which houses a metro station and a kindergarten. The Paris courthouse, designed by the Renzo Piano Building Workshop, is another prominent structure within the neighborhood.



Impact​

Clichy-Batignolles stands as a leading example of sustainable urban redevelopment, balancing environmental considerations with social inclusivity. Its design serves as a blueprint for future urban planning initiatives aiming to create resilient and equitable communities.


Architectural Firms & Key Designers​

  • MAD Architects (China) & Biecher Architectes (France)
    Collaborated on the iconic 13-story UNIC residential tower, notable for its organic, terraced design.
  • Renzo Piano Building Workshop (RPBW)
    Designed the Paris Judicial Court (Tribunal de Paris), a landmark structure anchoring the district.
  • Gaëtan Le Penhuel & Associés, Saison Menu, and SUD Architectes
    Jointly developed a mixed-use complex comprising housing, offices, and student accommodations.
  • Avenier Cornejo Architectes & Gausa Raveau Actarquitectura
    Collaborated on Lot E8, delivering 145 housing units with a focus on social integration.
  • Chartier-Dalix Architectes
    Designed office buildings strategically positioned above railway tracks, integrating industrial topography into urban design.
  • Nicolas Laisné Architectes
    Developed a mixed-use project featuring a 90-room hotel and business center, catering to the district's evolving needs.
  • Viguier Architecture Urbanisme Paysage
    Contributed to the district's master planning and architectural development, emphasizing sustainable urban integration.
  • Périphériques Architectes
    Participated in the design of various residential and mixed-use buildings within the eco-district.
  • WilkinsonEyre
    Involved in the development of innovative architectural solutions, contributing to the district's modern aesthetic.
  • Karawitz Architecture, SAM Architecture, and querkraft architekten
    Collaborated on social housing projects, integrating sustainable design principles.



Urban Planning & Landscape Design​

  • François Grether (Urban Planner)
    Led the overall urban planning for the eco-district, focusing on connectivity and sustainable development.
  • Jacqueline Osty (Landscape Architect)
    Designed the 10-hectare Martin Luther King Park, serving as the green heart of the district.
  • Emma Blanc Paysage
    Contributed to the landscaping of residential complexes, enhancing green spaces and communal areas.



These collaborations among international and French architects have transformed Clichy-Batignolles into a model of sustainable urban development, blending innovative design with ecological consciousness.
 
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