This last project is the result of a competition organized in 2005 by Paris Habitat, the Public Housing Office that following the demolition and reconstruction policy, sought to create a new block of flats for this location. The composed team was headed by Frédéric Druot and Lacaton & Vassal Architects, and proposed an alternative solution in agreement with the contemporary economical situation, while remaining faithful to their own principles. The original building was designed and built in the 1960s by Raymond Lopez. It was later renovated in 1990s by Tecteam, adding a not very attractive exterior cladding to the façade which ensured that the building met technical insulation standards. However, the renovated façade created small windows that worsened the living conditions.
The solution has been thought to be worth approximately of 100.00 € per apartment instead of the option of demolishing and reconstructing one proposed by the promoters of 170.000€, and permits a 50% reduction in noise and energy consumption.
The project of Lacaton-Vassal-Druot is a brilliant contemporary example of working within built-up heritage, solving with an exceptional industrial and even adaptable solution the problem which many European cities face.
Gonzalo Herrero Delicado (@GonzaloHerrero) and Maria José Marcos (@magicarch) are directors of DOT Agency for Architectural Affairs (@aaaadot), an agency for the diffusion of contemporary architecture through writtings and exhibitions based in Madrid and Paris.
The project of Lacaton-Vassal-Druot is a brilliant contemporary example of working within built-up heritage, solving with an exceptional industrial and even adaptable solution the problem which many European cities face
