A vast contemporary garden overlooking the Seine, bridging constancy and transformation

The grounds surrounding Notre-Dame are part of a larger ensemble of spacious gardens along the banks of the Seine. Amplifying these green spaces, our project places the cathedral and its new uniform hardscape plaza at the heart of a vast contemporary garden overlooking the Seine.

The expanded cathedral plaza framed by groves of wooded greenery highlights this iconic landmark and streamlines the huge crowds of visitors, while offering shaded and comfortable spaces. Existing groves are underplanted with lush vegetation. Pines and larches emerge from rows of linden trees, as small fruit trees brighten the understory. Surprise and modernity radiate from the juxtaposition of two landscape compositions — one redefining the site’s historical layout, the other creating a cohesive and naturalistic design. The verdant promenade running along the Seine connects the plaza to the redesigned upstream tip of the island of Île de la Cité. Here, newly planted trees are arranged freely, the tree beds bursting with rich plants. Groundcover and shrubberies become denser, creating more intimate spaces. The promenade and the upstream tip of the island overlook the river, moving between cool shade and golden sunlight, between thick groves of greenery and open views onto the cathedral. These spaces form the new beating heart of the island.

To the south of the plaza, a granite structure is set into the concrete framework of what was once an underground parking lot. The structure is flush with the ground above, blending seamlessly with the surrounding centuries-old stone. A patio and an interior walkway connect this underground space directly to the river.