A garden in the plaza and a meadow on the rooftops

The Tour Natixis tower is located between the Gare de Lyon and Gare d’Austerlitz train stations, near the River Seine and the Bassin de l’Arsenal marina. The big buildings around the Gare de Lyon train station have undergone multiple renovations since their initial construction, resulting in a mismatched collection. Our project aims to reunite the tower and neighboring buildings in a cohesive and unified urban environment, while developing a sound strategy for climate resilience.

In a departure from the typical urban courtyard concept, our design creates a free-form landscape that cultivates biodiversity and supports a comfortable climate.

An on-structure garden transforms the tower plaza and expands surrounding public space. The garden features densely planted berms that line the pathways. Given the low light conditions created by surrounding buildings, the site incorporates a pocket forest brimming with species well suited to the understory. Sidewalks and bike paths are seamlessly integrated into the reimagined, sustainable design. The new landscape improves pedestrian traffic flow between the Gare de Lyon and Gare d’Austerlitz train stations. 

Green roofs complete with garden terraces enliven the tower rooftops. Large thermophilic meadows blanket the green roofs, forming a lush and cohesive landscape. Here and there, low mounds of lightweight topsoil support small trees. Informal pathways and benches provide the perfect vantage points for taking in the stunning views.