Residential SERIES  •  Project FEATURE

Urban Harmony – Boulogne-Billancourt by Jean-Christophe Quinton

This project is a testament to Jean-Christophe Quinton's dedication to crafting spaces that resonate with both their inhabitants and the urban environment. Situated at a pivotal junction in Boulogne-Billancourt, the housing complex is a harmonious blend of thoughtful design and urban sensitivity, standing as a beacon of contemporary social housing.

By prioritizing the relationship between the building and its urban context, Quinton has created a space that serves both its residents and the broader community. This project stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design in enhancing the livability and identity of urban spaces. The 24 social housing units at 182 rue Gallieni are more than just a residential complex; they are a statement of Quinton’s architectural philosophy.

"Every design detail serves a purpose, creating a seamless connection between the building and its urban environment."

The location of the 24 social housing units in Boulogne-Billancourt presents a unique architectural challenge: to create a structure that aligns with its diverse surroundings while establishing a strong presence. Quinton’s approach addresses this by designing two distinct entities within the complex, separated by a calculated gap that aligns with the varying heights of adjacent buildings. This careful consideration allows the new structure to blend into the existing urban fabric, maintaining harmony with the neighboring architecture.

At the heart of this project is the creation of a square that serves as both a communal space and a visual anchor for the neighborhood. Quinton’s design ensures that the building complements rather than overwhelms this public space. By incorporating uniformly sized balconies that echo the square's dimensions, the project achieves a consistent aesthetic that ties the building to its surroundings. The diamond-shaped balconies, a distinctive feature, are not just a design choice but a response to urban regulations, optimizing space while enhancing the building’s character.

"Through innovative design and material use, we redefine what it means to create socially responsible housing."

The diamond-shaped balconies are a central element of the building’s identity. These balconies are a practical solution to meet city regulations requiring projections of a specific size, but they also contribute to the building's overall aesthetic. By extending outward by 60 centimeters, they maximize the exterior space available to each unit, creating a connection between the private interiors and the public square. This thoughtful design detail exemplifies Quinton’s ability to blend practicality with artistic expression.

The internal layout of the housing units reflects a commitment to creating fluid, livable spaces. Each apartment is designed to be dual aspect, with balconies on one side and passageways or gardens on the other. This configuration not only allows for cross-ventilation but also enhances the sense of openness within the units. Sliding doors between living rooms and bedrooms further contribute to this sense of fluidity, allowing residents to customize their living spaces according to their needs.

The materials chosen for this project are a direct reflection of the building’s context. Quinton has employed bricks and prefabricated concrete elements that resonate with the surrounding architecture while also giving the building a contemporary edge. The use of stacked columns of bricks and folded concrete components for the lintels and balconies ties the building to its historical roots, while the modern execution of these materials ensures the project feels current and relevant.

Jean-Christophe Quinton’s project in Boulogne-Billancourt exemplifies the potential of architecture to contribute positively to its environment. Through careful consideration of context, materiality, and form, Quinton has created a residential complex that is both functional and beautiful, serving as a model for future urban developments.