Caisse d’Épargne
Midi-Pyrénées Headquarters

Set on the edge of an outstanding protected park, the project, in the shape of an arc, immerses its users in a natural setting that is soothing and refreshing, as well as conducive to thought, team building, informal meetings and relaxation. Social interaction is at the heart of the project and will find expression in a specific space within the arc which, like a village square, will bring together all activities such as the conference centre, the restaurant and areas for receiving visitors. The Toulouse climate will enable these activities to be offered for an extended period beneath the pergolas around a cool, shaded island and a stretch of water.

An ensemble of balcony-terraces linked by external staircases forms an interconnected ring overlooking a circular central space, like an amphitheatre, thus showcasing the company’s social life and the relationship with nature. This combination of arc-shaped geometry, external balconies and terraces and central square will forge the Caisse d’Épargne’s new local identity and, as well as being a space dedicated to teams’ wellbeing and high performance, will be a true icon.

The overall ecological approach, applied from design to delivery, will accentuate this identity. Integration into the local area and landscape will be emphasised by the choice of locally-sourced, natural, durable, low-emission materials such as brick and stone for the interiors and grounds. Deactivated concrete containing terracotta will enable innovative use of these materials, and the building’s low height is enabling the use of mixed or wooden structures and floors as part of the shift towards a zero-carbon building.

The architectural approach, in its philosophy and design, thus offers the Caisse d’Épargne a tool, not only for economic recovery and for winning new partners, customers and staff, but also, as part of a strong regional commitment, for unleashing energy