Reviving Bastide Niel with a Botanical Touch
In Bordeaux, France, MVRDV has unveiled La Vallée Verte, a striking green residential complex characterized by unique architectural forms and lush plantings. Located on the bank of the Garonne River, this project is a part of the broader redevelopment of Bastide Niel, a former industrial area.
Within this transformation, MVRDV’s design integrates faceted structures that maximize exposure to natural light while enveloping residents in greenery. The courtyards offer intimate spaces, fostering a sense of community amidst nature.
An Innovative Architectural Vision
Winy Maas, founder of MVRDV, explains the project’s vision: “Our Bastide Niel masterplan aims to create intimacy by building on historical traces with a network of quaint streets while ensuring abundant sunlight through carefully crafted roofscapes and façades.” The result is a complex resembling a natural valley, with individual interpretations by each architect working within a unified framework.
The Verdant Heart of the Complex
Comprised of three distinct buildings, La Vallée Verte surrounds a central “crater” courtyard, offering residents a peaceful, park-like environment. This innovative design provides 70 homes of varying sizes to cater to diverse families and age groups.
To dive into another project focusing on architectural harmony with nature, check out Byron Bay’s tiny home marvel that emphasizes off-grid ingenuity.
The buildings’ angled facades derive from a parametric approach known as “suncuts,” optimizing sunlight access while minimizing shadows. Outward-facing sides are flat and tiled, contrasting with the courtyard facades that boast full-height openings adorned with potted plants and trees.
Functional and Playful Design Elements
MVRDV ensures plant maintenance with a dedicated access route for gardeners, featuring whimsical steel doors shaped like gardeners in wide-brimmed hats. This element infuses the structure with playful charm and functional design.
Green Energy and Community Amenities
Adding to its sustainable credentials, La Vallée Verte includes a day-care center, above-ground parking, and porous landscaping. The buildings connect to a district heating system and utilize photovoltaic panels to meet some of their energy needs. Interiors favor a minimalist style with white walls complemented by wooden details.
La Vallée Verte continues MVRDV’s tradition of architectural innovation, reminiscent of their other geological-inspired designs like the Marble Arch Mound in London and Ascension Paysagée in Rennes. Photography is credited to Paul Lefevre unless otherwise noted.
For a look at dynamic architectural transformation, explore how TAKK reimagined MAXXI’s entrance with a multispecies space.
Source: dezeen.com