19 Collective Housing Units, The architectural style of the Alsace-Lorraine district, rebuilt after the war, is characteristic of what is called classical modernity; it is based on a symmetrical composition with gabled roofs, vertical openings, and decorative moldings.
© Charly Broyez
The challenge of the new contemporary layer is to successfully reconcile this scale and vocabulary with that of the Banque de France building, monumental in character, located to the west of the block.
© Charly Broyez
In the interest of urban coherence and to preserve sunlight quality, the project’s volumes adapt to the adjoining buildings. A five-story volume along Rue Clisson and a second, ground-floor volume along Rue Vaubanet create a gap with the rehabilitated Banque de France. The massing of the new buildings thus clarifies the fragmented existing block to create a coherent urban ensemble and free up a landscaped courtyard at the center.
© Charly Broyez
The two new constructions form a new layer between Place Alsace-Lorraine and Rue du Couëdic. The gap between the Banque and the new constructions introduces a public character while highlighting the institutional building. The unity and arrangement of the whole are thereby clarified, reinforcing the distinctiveness and quality of this part of the city of Lorient.
© Charly Broyez
The setback of the top floor, as well as the rhythm and size of the windows, create unified façades that harmoniously integrate the new building into its context. This generosity is accompanied by an optimal design for all through-apartments, each benefitting from a double or triple orientation and an outdoor space connected to the living room facing south.
© Charly Broyez
The project blends with its mineral environment, with concrete elevations simply given a light wash to keep the material visible.
Project Info
Architects: Atelier 56S
Country: France, Lorient
Area: 2086 m²
Year: 2025
Photographs: Charly Broyez
Manufacturers Saint-Gobain, Belle Epoque, Casamance, LedsC4, Norlys, Sapa: Saint-Gobain
Design Team: Atelier 56S
Client: Qualitym
Economy: CdLP
Structure: Ouest Structure
Thermal And Fluids: Solab
Asbestos Removal: ADS85
Demolition: Kerleroux
Earthworks Structural Work: Angevin
Renovation: Jaffre
Woodworks: CMBS
Metal Frame: Lobligeois
Roofing: 45Ouest
Waterproofing: Bretagne Etancheite
Windows: Realu
Smithing: Lobligeois
Automatic Doors: Fermatic
Carpentry: CMBS
Insulation Ceilings: Rault
Floors Tiles And Wood Floors: Dupuy
Painting Wall Covering: LMI / TSL
Plumbing, Heating And Ventilation: FCE
Electricity: Allanic
Elevator: Orona
Landscape: ID Verde
Cleaning: Richard Nettoyage
Anastasia Andreieva is an accomplished Architectural Projects Editor at Arch2O, bringing a unique blend of linguistic expertise and design enthusiasm to the team. Born and raised in Ukraine, she holds a Master’s degree in Languages from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. Her deep passion for architecture and visual storytelling led her to transition from translation and editorial roles into the world of design media. With a keen eye for conceptual clarity and narrative structure, Anastasia curates and presents global architectural projects with precision and flair. She is particularly drawn to parametric and digital design, cultural context, and emerging voices in architecture. When I’m not analyzing the latest architectural trends, you’ll probably find me searching for hidden gems in cityscapes or appreciating the beauty of well-crafted spaces. After all, great design—like great connections—can be found in the most unexpected places. Speaking of connections, because architecture isn’t the only thing that brings people together.