Let’s face it: no architect dreams of constructing blocks. They may have been Le Corbusier’s dream vision brought to life, but contemporary architects usually tend to focus on different aspects of our field. However, they are a “necessary evil”, which determines architects to find smart, unique solutions to bring this type of construction out of the ordinary.Located in the Courghain district in Dunkirk’s suburbs, the Grand Synthe – Place Du Courghain living unit created by Philippe Dubus, is placed along a water canal and towards the city. The project contains only 57 housing, being a relatively small structure with 4206.0 sqm, but the attention paid to the details and to the façade treatment is meticulous, yet fun.
photography by © Sergio Grazia
The architects considered that the real challenged consisted in “applying the brief in small walk-through housing units organized around an inner meadow. The rough-hewn walls also had to lend an urban face to the project while fostering its incorporation into the watergang landscape”. All living rooms are facing the center of the structure and the water canal, the strategic placement being enhanced by the spacious, colorful balconiesThe building is additionally classified as a low-energy consumer.
photography by © Sergio Grazia
By:Lidia Ratoi
Lidia Ratoi is a Romanian architect, educator, and researcher, currently serving as Assistant Professor at the University of Hong Kong’s Department of Architecture. With a background in both architectural design and theory, her work explores the intersections of technology, media, and politics in the built environment. Ratoi’s research focuses on the aesthetics of power, surveillance, and virtuality, with a strong interest in critical and speculative design. She has practiced internationally and exhibited in venues across Europe and Asia. Passionate about challenging conventional narratives, Ratoi integrates digital tools with philosophical inquiry, encouraging experimental approaches to architecture. Her contributions continue to shape emerging discourses in design and architectural pedagogy.