The forecourt of Puteaux City Hall asserts itself as a central and unifying space in the city, at the intersection of historical heritage and modernity. Situated in a dense urban context on the edge of the La Défense district, it offers a valuable urban and landscaped breathing space while highlighting the neoclassical architecture of the City Hall and the adjacent contemporary media library.
The project is based on a clear and balanced composition of mineral and vegetal elements. On one side, the mineral forecourt, structured with a checkerboard paving, naturally guides sightlines and pathways toward the site’s strong verticals: façades, trees, and pergolas. On the other, the planted garden forecourt provides shade and cooling.
Beyond its aesthetic role, the project addresses contemporary challenges: summer comfort, biodiversity, and climate resilience. Subtle, integrated nighttime lighting animates the square while preserving its natural character. The space is designed to be flexible, adapting to the rhythms of communal life: the forecourt can host cultural, festive, or civic events.
Today, the forecourt has become a true meeting place and hub of conviviality, capable of accommodating both daily activities and large gatherings, reflecting the city’s commitment to the well-being of its residents.
