An in-ground miniature forest and a garden terrace

The parcel of the Îlot SERNAM project site is located near the Canal du Midi canal, at the heart of the evolving ZAC de Grand Matabiau urban development zone, bordered by train tracks to the north. Nearly 2,500 square meters of in-ground planted surfaces and 110 new trees transform the grounds of the SERNAM building complex into a network of dense and uninterrupted greenery, extending existing urban landscape infrastructure.

The innovative design of the built environment on the parcel frees up a significant amount of in-ground space. A half-hectare “miniature” forest is planted at the foot of the buildings. There, the forest trees form shaded areas. The understory features a groundcover layer characteristic of mesophytic forests, filled with Mediterranean species and, in wetter zones, fresh meadow species. The middle shrub layer, composed of yellow loosestrife, viburnum, and sessile-leaved broom, is intentionally sparse in order to highlight lines of sight between the ground and the canopy foliage.

A central promenade crosses the wooded area from one end of the parcel to the other, providing a clear and legible access way through the space. A hardscape border surfaced in Tarn granite serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. The link uniting the entire complex, this frame establishes a space dedicated to movement, access, and repose, all while creating a seamless transition between architecture and planted landscape.

The rooftops are designed as large gardens accessible to visitors, with abundant direct sunlight. These green roofs are filled with small trees and plants characteristic of Mediterranean garigue vegetation. Plantings are adapted in accordance with rooftop weight and soil depth limits. Blanketed layers of low shrubs and aromatic plants (lavender, rosemary, salvia, etc.) punctuate these garden spaces, while highlighting pathways perfect for strolling alongside breathtaking views of the city.