Triangle

Triangle must be first of all considered on the metropolitan scale of the city of Paris. Its unique shape, that of an irregular pyramid with a trapezoidal base, contrasts with the perception that a classic tower with a simple extrusion would offer. This volumetry provides Triangle with multiple and dynamic perceptions, that vary depending on the point of view. This way, it participates actively in sculpting Paris’ silhouette and will bring great visibility to the Place de la Porte de Versailles and to the site of the Parc des Expositions form all of the Metropolis.

On the Place de la Porte de Versailles scale, the insertion of an emblematic building that will be recognizable from all along the Ernest Renan avenue -in the heart of the Parc des Expositions and in the background of the square and the neighboring buildings- will play an important role in the restructuring of flows and the perception of urban spaces, while reactivating the historical road joining the Paris’ 15th district with the bordering towns of Issy-les-Moulineaux and Vanves. The precise calibration of its volumetry favors its insertion and aims at minimizing the building’s impact on the environment. Its triangular shape has two functions: to insure the conservation of generous points of view of the sky for the residents and to reduce, in the manner of a sundial, the projection of shadows on the neighboring buildings. Triangle is conceived as a piece of city that would have been spun around and placed vertically. The project is first perceived by the visitor from the Place de la Porte de Versailles where the public transport network converges. The base of the building is open to the public, with access from the square and all along the Ernest Renan avenue that will regain the appearance of an animated Parisian street, with its shops and facilities. The Northeastern side facing the center of Paris includes two reclined lifts that will connect the atrium at the base to the panoramic restaurant at the top of the tower. The visit can continue until the highest point of Triangle, up to the belvedere where the visitor will discover breathtaking views of the whole of Paris. Triangle will thus become one of the major places in Paris. It will rebuild a strong and animated urban space in the Place de la Porte de Versailles, becoming a landmark from which we will be able to appreciate the urban panorama and will surface as a remarkable silhouette amongst the system of roads and monuments in the city, such a signal in the heart of the Parc des Expositions.

Herzog & de Meuron, 2014