Promenade
Sainte-Catherine

The lively and tempting route through the shopping streets leads to a new square composed around a basin, whose course alludes to the River Devèze (which once traversed the site, a flourishing port in the Roman era). Another memorable element is the totem, an intentionally sculptural building that is the square’s emblem.

The project’s architecture aims to be resolutely contemporary and consistent with the setting. It fits into the traditional historical fabric, the materials (Bordeaux stone, light-coloured brick, rubble stone and terracotta) forming a continuum with this protected area. The façades are subtly expressive of the stratification of functions. They are simultaneously carefully laid out and varied. The project’s unique structural framework offers the shops and dwellings great flexibility and adaptability. At night, the light accentuates the walkways and turns the space into a stage setting for hosting a variety of events that follow the calendar of local life.

Lastly, the project takes account of the key environmental issues, in its choice of construction materials and procedures, the reduced energy demand and the way water is managed, making this a district of tomorrow.