MAD Architects is bringing its curvaceous brand of building design to Europe for the first time. The newly announced UNIC apartment block in Paris will be marked by offset, meandering floor plates that taper gradually as the building rises to make the most of the views.
Beijing-based MAD was awarded the project in partnership with with local firm Biecher Architectes following an international design competition. A series of workshops followed, looking at issues such as sustainable community development, resource sharing, energy management and population demographics.
UNIC is located in the newly developed Clichy-Batignolles area of Paris, overlooking Martin Luther King Park and close to a Renzo Piano-designed courthouse that is currently under construction. The site covers an area of 1,033 sq m (11,119 sq ft) and the building itself comprises 13 floors rising to 50 m (164 ft).
Quite aside from being playful and visually compelling, the building's wavy floor plates deliver a practical outcome. Some floors stretch out to provide large balcony spaces, while others appear not to reach the envelope of the building. As well providing enough space for the planting of the odd tree, the balconies will also afford residents views of the surrounding city and of the Eiffel Tower.
In addition to residential units, the building will provide direct access to the Metro and will house a kindergarten, retail spaces and restaurants.
The project is due for completion in 2017.
Source: MAD
