[Fabb]

Breaking news : Aurore to be demolished.

The 110 m office building in La Défense (and an adjacent low rise) will be replaced by a tall tower. The plan is still being negociated. Details are unknown but a famous architect is rumored to be in charge of the design.

http://rechauffementplanete.free.fr/def/IMG_5075.jpg

[sentinel]

Too bad, looks like a nice building already..

[Alliance]

except for the giant electrical plugs on every floor.

[Grumpy]

A pity , I love the boldness of Aurore

[Fabb]

except for the giant electrical plugs on every floor.

That's because work is in progress in the tower (asbestos removal).

[kenratboy]

Weak!!!

A city full of buildings that all look the same (flame suit on), and they are tearing down that tall building!?

[Minato Ku]

Tour Signal

This Brisavoine post posted in an other forum :D
Sorry I am very lazy I will not rewrite this
Great news on the French forum. It is confirmed that the "tour Signal" is distinct from the "tour Phare". You may remember that in the beginning it was announced that a so-called "tour Signal" would be built to symbolize the regeneration of La Défense. Then last November it was Thom Mayne's 300m tower that was selected, and the project was renamed "tour Phare". Then two months ago, during his New Year's "good wishes" press conference, the director of La Défense Authority (EPAD) hinted that the "tour Signal" was a project still alive and distinct from the "tour Phare". I wrote about that in a message some weeks ago here, but some forumers doubted my information. Now it is confirmed by EPAD itself! One French forumer asked on the official La Défense forum whether the "tour Signal" was distinct from the "tour Phare", and the admin from EPAD said YES. You can see it here if you can read French: http://www.ladefense.fr/forum/viewtopic.php?t=792

The fact that EPAD answered is quite remarkable. Usually they are pretty secret about what's going on in La Défense, so I was very surprised to discover this on the French forum. Especially since we are in the middle of a bitter presidential election in France, it's surprising that they answered the French forumer. They must feel quite confident about the "tour Signal" project.

According to the admin, this "tour Signal" would house the Ministry of Public Works. It had long been rumored that the ministry was planning to leave the Grande Arche where its offices are currently located, and build its own tower. Now it's confirmed, and this new tower they'd build for their offices would be the "tour Signal". Also, initially it was rumored the ministry was planning to build 80,000 m² (860,000 sq. ft) of office space, but now it was reported in the French press that they're planning to build 100,000m² (1,075,000 sq. ft). So this born-again "tour Signal" would contain 100,000 m² of office space if the ministry is the only occupier. That means the "tour Signal" would be at least 200m (600 ft) high, perhaps more. For comparisons, the 310m (1,1018 ft) US Bank Tower in LA contains 120,000 m² (1.3 million sq. ft) of office space, so the ministry is not envisioning something small.

The admin said that an architect contest would be launched to select the design of the "tour Signal". It is quite probable that we will have no renderings until the winning project is selected, same as what happened with the "tour Phare". If you re-read what I wrote here a few weeks ago, I reported this rumor that Ferrier's 335m tower could be chosen as the design for the "tour Signal" because Ferrier was furious at the way Thom Mayne's project had been chosen for the "tour Phare" (Thom Mayne didn't respect the budget assigned to contestants). Now the EPAD admin said there would be an architect contest for the "tour Signal", so what of Ferrier's tower? Perhaps Ferrier will be allowed to take part in this new contest, with a more serious chance to win this time. I don't know. Personally, I would love if Ferrier's tower is built. It's by far the most beautiful tower that I've seen proposed in La Défense.

In any case, let's remember that this "tour Signal" for the Ministry of Public Works will be a State project (unlike Generali Tower or "tour Phare" which are private projects), so it is most sensitive to political changes. Should the Socialists win back power next May-June, there's a great likelihood it would be cancelled if their recent anti-La Défense stances are to be taken at face value.

Anyway, I can't resist putting again some pictures of Ferrier's 335m (1,100 ft) tower, for those who haven't seen it already.

http://img219.imageshack.us/img219/6183/ferrier3xv7.jpg

http://img219.imageshack.us/img219/9572/ferrier1tb5.jpg

http://img323.imageshack.us/img323/324/ferrier2yr5.jpg

This is my message

According the magazine of Haut de Seine departement "92 Express" the height of Tour Signal should be around 300m

Tour Signal will be the sister of Tour Phare.
Article warning,the height of this PDf is 9 Mb (http://www.92express.net/92ex/images2007_03/PDF167/Ladefense.pdf)

And an official source from the senat
From the start of the plan Defense 2015 Tour Signal and Tour Phare was distinct.

Sorry it is in french because I am lazy. :)

Afin de « relancer » le quartier, le directeur général de l'EPAD a proposé le 2 décembre 2005 au conseil d'administration de l'établissement le Projet « La Défense 2015 », plan de développement prévoyant notamment la construction de 850.000 m² de bureaux et 100.000 m² de nouveaux logements, l'édification de deux tours de plus de 300 mètres de haut (Tour Signal et Tour Phare) et la rénovation de tours existantes.

Here (http://www.senat.fr/rap/l06-147/l06-1474.html)

[skylife]

^ I don't see anything American about it. Those highrises are much more stylish and architecturally interesting than anything going up in the US. In a sense, it's highrise design with a French touch..

Skyscraper skylines are an iconic and original American aesthetic. Just like the wide boulevards in DC are meant to emulate European cities, especially Paris, Paris (and most major cities in the world) is clearly aiming for an iconic US-style skyline though they would never admit it. And I don't see anything particularly special about these. Except some are especially ugly.

[Grumpy]

And after six month is there news about le Tour Signal ?

[Fabb]

No.
But a new rendering of Phare :

http://grrroux.free.fr/misc/phare2.JPG

[Nowhereman1280]

^^^ Oh God, is it just me or did that Amoeba just grow a serrated spine? Look at the left edge, it looks like it has a serrated edge now! UGGG!

[Minato Ku]

Other renderings

http://grrroux.free.fr/misc/phare23.jpg

http://grrroux.free.fr/misc/phare24.jpg

http://grrroux.free.fr/misc/phare25.jpg
Photos link (http://www.paris-skyscrapers.fr/forum/viewtopic.php?pid=133023#p133023)

[Alliance]

Em...ew. That flat side is atrocious.

[dallasbrink]

looks like someone ripped off the top then cut it down the building and put it in the middle of paris.

[R@ptor]

Em...ew. That flat side is atrocious.

My thoughts exactly. I always assumed it would be round on every side.

[NYguy]

a new rendering of Phare :

http://grrroux.free.fr/misc/phare2.JPG

Godzilla, finally tired of Japanese food, decides to dine on French...;)

[Minato Ku]

The same for Paris, nobody know that Paris build more office than New York and London.

According the latest Jonas Paris crane survey (http://www.driversjonas.com/uk.aspx?doc=23070) there is 1,650,000m² (17,760,453 sq ft) of office space under in construction in Paris and the inner suburbs.
Note that doesn't include office buildings under 1,000m² and the high numbers of office under in construction oulter suburbs.

Only cities like Bejing, Shanghai or Moscow build more office.

La Defense have only 8% of Paris total office space. (49 million m² or 527 million sq ft)
Paris is actually the third city in the world in office space (after Tokyo and New York)

Paris is not overrated, Paris is unknow, I invite you to see this thread http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/showthread.php?t=129872 and you will see the real Paris.

Paris has a GDP of €500.8 billion (US$628.9 billion), It host more Fortune Global 500 entreprises HQ than any city in the world execpt Tokyo.

Paris is view as a touristic museum monocultural city city but the reality it is the oposite.

Godzilla, finally tired of Japanese food, decides to dine on French...;)

Actually there is so many Japanese restaurants in Paris (Most are old chinese restaurant which become japanese for increase their prices and the food is pretty bad).
If Godzilla like Starbucks and sushi la Defense is perfect.

[NYguy]

The same for Paris, nobody know that Paris build more office than New York and London.

According the latest Jonas Paris crane survey (http://www.driversjonas.com/uk.aspx?doc=23070) there is 1,650,000m² (17,760,453 sq ft) of office space under in construction in Paris and the inner suburbs.
Note that doesn't include office buildings under 1,000m² and the high numbers of office under in construction oulter suburbs.

Not accurate or true, at least as far as New York goes. We're not even talking suburbs.

[Minato Ku]

Edit

[aeathin2]

That building looks like it is in its third trimester.

[Fabb]

I had read that in an official document.
How many office space build New York metro ?


Is this a Paris vs NY thread ?

Let's just discuss about Phare, OK ?
I wonder if the height figure has been modified. I also wonder about the wind turbines on top...

[Minato Ku]

These renders are really bad in quality.
The official height is always 300m

[Fabb]

These renders are really bad in quality.
The official height is always 300m

Well, in that case, the following diagram is not acurate. Is that what you're saying ?

http://grrroux.free.fr/misc/phare22.jpg

[FrancoRey]

Oh man I am MUCH a fan of Ferrier's tower above...that would be more than enough to re-vamp the look and expansion of tower space in La Defense.

As far as that 'other' thing is concened (the Phare)...ughh:yuck:. Paris could VERY much do without that monster and be MUCH better off. I don't even want to get into the names and sick descriptions I have heard for that gross structure previously: The pickle, the fetus, the 'hairy' tower, and my personal favorite, the Shmoo:


http://www.well.com/~cactus/imgz/shmoo.gif

I honestly can say even for 300m, I pray that thing doesn't get built.

Keep up everything else though!

[SHiRO]

I like how many have such a strong opinion on a tower that hasn't been build yet...

[Fabb]

I like how many have such a strong opinion on a tower that hasn't been build yet...

Hopefully, it will never be.

I can't believe that I don't support the construction of France's tallest skyscraper.

[Derek2k32]

Not accurate or true, at least as far as New York goes. We're not even talking suburbs.

There's only about 11 m.s.f of office U/C now in NY. Very little office space is being built outside of Manhattan.

[Kevin_foster]

I love Paris, I love La Défense & I think Thom Mayne's building would do nothing but compliment the uniqueness of the city...

Can't wait to see it when it's built, I will fly over just to see it in person!

[Minato Ku]

Hopefully, it will never be.

I can't believe that I don't support the construction of France's tallest skyscraper.

Actually it is only second. Generalli is taller. :)

[Dream'n]

I thought that on the non-flat side it would always looking incomplete, as in unfinished but with the rendering of the flat side I thought perhaps this was a new building or rendering and it looks just as incomplete/unfinished. I just don't see this as being something enduring.

[Higherisbetter!]

Hi everyone! First pics of a new project for LD! Some of you probably know them already.

Tower D2 (150m)

http://www.defense-92.fr/photos/tourd2.bmp

http://img68.imageshack.us/img68/3847/d22pu0.jpg

http://img49.imageshack.us/img49/4476/d23ak8.jpg

http://img68.imageshack.us/img68/9742/d24ol7.jpg

Tour PB22 (220-230m)

http://www.defense-92.fr/photos/pb22visu1.jpg

http://www.defense-92.fr/photos/pb22visu2.jpg

http://www.defense-92.fr/photos/pb22visu3.jpg

http://www.defense-92.fr/photos/pb22visu6.jpg

http://www.defense-92.fr/photos/pb22visu7.jpg

Tour Majunga (235m)

http://www.defense-92.fr/photos/majungarendu1.jpg

Tour Air² (200m approx)

http://www.defense-92.fr/photos/renduaire2a.jpg

http://www.defense-92.fr/photos/air2rendu1.jpg

http://www.defense-92.fr/photos/ph2340.jpg


This is getting really exciting! Cheers!

[Fabb]

@Higherisbetter : welcome to the forum :)

http://grrroux.free.fr/misc/muncho2.jpg

Model photographed by Krapulax :

http://grrroux.free.fr/misc/mongo1.jpg

http://grrroux.free.fr/misc/mongo2.jpg

http://grrroux.free.fr/misc/mongo4.jpg

[Higherisbetter!]

Thx Fabb for welcoming me :tup: and for those new pics.
Is this model the one in the museum of LD? Finally up-to-date? It looks great! I gotta go there!
Phare looks better here. I'm starting to get used to it!

[Fabb]

Thx Fabb for welcoming me :tup: and for those new pics.
Is this model the one in the museum of LD?

I guess the model is at the espace info Défense. I don't know how acurate it is.

Phare looks better here. I'm starting to get used to it!

I'm not. But I'm doing my best.

I just hope that the Tour Signal won't be even worse. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

[Fabb]

Better rendering of Generali :

http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff161/Grandpalais/mat8018.jpg?t=1195310303

[Higherisbetter!]

I'm not a fan of generali, it would look better without the central pinnacle.

[samoen313]

i can deal with generali. the central pinnacle serves a great function of providing the building with renewable energy. i find it less distracting that when the plans were first released.

i've given tour phare a long time to digest and a fair chance. as progressive of an architect as i am, i still can't help but find the tower ungainly in proportion. i'd really like to read what the jury's comments were for why they chose thom mayne's proposal. anyone know if there is such a document or any public comments made? has thom mayne released any of his developmental work for the project? all i have seen are final models and renders and thus don't really understand the intent of the thing.

[Minato Ku]

The Russian Company Hermitage SAS plans to build in Paris an analogue of the Federation Tower, which is currently under construction in Moscow. The 300 meter high tower with the total floor area of 250 000 square meters will be constructed in La Défense business district of Paris and promises to become the highest residential building in Europe. Beside apartments, there will be an apart-hotel and offices. The parent company of Hermitage SAS will build also an office tower with the floor area of 120 thousand square meters within the limits of Paris Conurbation.

The both towers are estimated at €2.5 billion. However, the French party hasn’t confirmed the project yet. Hermitage SAS has got several similar residential projects in France.
http://www.russia-ic.com/news/show/5077/

[Fabb]

^Incredible.
But I'm more skeptical than excited.

[Higherisbetter!]

According to its official website, the EPAD (authorties managing LD) made a first selection of 18 architects for the Tour Signal Competition.
The competition is based on a new concept: Architect/Investor teams make proposals for a mix-used tower (office, shopping, housing, services), there's no imposed plot. More than 30 teams were involved, showing the interest around this ambitious project.

And the nominees are:
-Architecture Studio
-Chistian de Portzamparc
-Jean Nouvel
-Beyrac Sawsan
-Cesar Pelli
-Christophe Ingenhoven
-DGLa
-Foster and Partners
-Hervé Tordjman
-Jacques Ferrier
-Jean Paul Viguier
-Manuelle Gautrand
-Philippe Chiambaretta
-Rem Koolhaas
-RMJM Hillier
-Studio Libeskind
-Wilmotte et Associés SA et Steven Holl
-Zaha Hadid

Hand-in deadline February 08, selection of 5 projects for the final jury March 08, Final jury and result april 08.

http://www.ladefense.fr/images/dynamic/events/def2015.jpg

[LeftCoaster]

no SOM? quel dommage!

[Grumpy]

le Tour Phare is without any doubt the best example of bad taste.
After looking at the flat side of it ....people should start a petition in Paris and far beyond to prevent it of being built.
The ultimate eyesore

[Metropolitan]

le Tour Phare is without any doubt the best example of bad taste.
After looking at the flat side of it ....people should start a petition in Paris and far beyond to prevent it of being built.
The ultimate eyesoreWell, the flat side was the one I've been the most skeptic about initially, but now with the latest renderings, I must confess that I really feel it good. Though as this is all a matter of taste, we can't really debate about it.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2174/1720551571_f84f0b1fef_o.jpg

[alexjon]

I really like it

[villelumiere]

I don't like it. In my opinion LD dosn't need supertalls. It's attraction ( for me ) is that it is an improving and dense cluster of 180 to 200 metre towers which fit together thematically. T1 and Granite are great additions and are the proper scale. This building is a square peg in a round hole.

LD now has 13 150 metre plus towers. In my perfect world it wouls have 18 to 20 towers in the 150 to 200 range with the new ones being 180 to 200 as is Granite and T1.

Well that is my opinion.

[Fabb]

LD now has 13 150 metre plus towers. In my perfect world it wouls have 18 to 20 towers in the 150 to 200 range with the new ones being 180 to 200 as is Granite and T1.

Sounds boring.
The 100 to 200 m range is the worst possible. You get all the flaws of big buildings without any of the benefits.

That's probably why many people in France hate skyscrapers. They have no idea of what tall skyscrapers are and what a city gains with them.

Give them half a dozen elegant 300 to 450 m towers in LD and they won't regret it. They'll be proud.

[Fabb]

New renderings of the renovated Gan :

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/7687/sanstitre1jc2.png

http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/5540/69132293bi0.png

[AJphx]

boo, tour gan is perfect how it is.

this design is nice however, it should be built as a new tour.... how about in place of tour phare.

[Fabb]

http://img136.imageshack.us/img136/4306/57734669pr6.jpg

[R@ptor]

Are there any plans for new skyscrapers on the left side of the Grande Arc?

[Minato Ku]

Of course but less than for the right.

Majunga tower 195m was approved few month ago, and Signal tower (over 300m) could be build.

Majunga tower.

http://www.ladefense.fr/images/dynamic/projets/majunga.jpg

[Minato Ku]

Carpe Diem tower (166m)

Stern Seizes the Day: Tour Carpe Diem by Robert A.M. Stern Architects

The newest addition to La Défense is crystalline - and green.

By ArchNewsNow
January 18, 2008

The skyline of La Défense, once considered by many to be a rather bleak business district on the outskirts of Paris, is undergoing a major transformation. Things really started heating up when the La Defense Management & Development Office (EPAD) launched an ambitious development plan called "La Defense 2006-2015." Striking buildings by Jean-Paul Viguier, Arte Charpentier, Christian de Portzamparc, Pei Cobb Freed & Partners, Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF), Arquitectonica, Morphosis, and Valode & Pistre Architectes are either nearing completion or about to break ground.

Robert A.M. Stern Architects is the latest to join this stellar galaxy of architects. The New York City-based firm was selected (over Jacques Ferrier Architecte and Foster + Partners) to design Tour Carpe Diem, a new office tower for Aviva France, a leading provider of life insurance and pensions savings. The 35-story, 45,000-square-meter (@ 485,000-square-foot) building is another step forward in the evolution of La Défense toward pedestrian-friendly urbanism and environmentally responsible architecture. The building connects the raised esplanade – the “dalle” that continues the axis of the Champs-Elysées through the district – and the urban fabric of the city of Courbevoie to the north.

Tour Carpe Diem will significantly exceed French regulations for environmentally responsible development. The building's triple-glazed curtain wall incorporates sunshades that respond to the solar orientation of each façade and innovative grilles that provide natural ventilation to reduce dependence on air conditioning. Additional sustainable design strategies include solar water heating, a heat recovery system, high-performance lighting, and rainwater harvesting.

The project includes a landscaped pedestrian street lined with cafés that leads to an 18-meter-high (60 feet), skylit atrium, and rooftop conference and dining facilities surrounded by a garden and dramatic views of Paris.

SRA Architects of Châtillon, France, is the associate architect for the project.

Robert A.M. Stern Architects is a 300-person firm with a 38-year history of experience in residential, commercial, and institutional work, and currently has projects in Europe, Asia, South America, and throughout the United States. Numerous awards and citations for design excellence include National Honor Awards of the American Institute of Architects.

On the south façade, aluminum and high-performance triple-glazed glass curtain wall integrates horizontal louvers to moderate southern light.
http://www.archnewsnow.com/features/images/Feature0240_08x.jpg
(Atelier ten for Robert A.M. Stern Architects)

On the east and west façades, aluminum and high-performance triple-glazed glass curtain wall integrates vertical louvers to moderate low morning and evening sunlight. Silkscreen film increases reflectivity of the glazing without significantly diminishing its transparency. Horizontal vents provide natural ventilation and reduce reliance on air conditioning.
http://www.archnewsnow.com/features/images/Feature0240_09x.jpg
(Atelier ten for Robert A.M. Stern Architects)

[Minato Ku]

Explication by Brisavoine.



Coming back to the 166m (545 ft) Carpe Diem Tower, which is due to be delivered in 2013, you can see its exact location on Metropolitan's map of La Défense:
http://img61.imageshack.us/img61/7411/projetsldmetrozz0.png

And here is a more detailed map of the area:
http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/1896_5_tour6.jpg

The Carpe Diem Tower will replace the 8-floor France Telecom Building. Here are some pics of the France Telecom Buidling.

Front side on the Circular Boulevard (it's the building with "Open" written on it):
http://www.defense-92.fr/liste/Photos/IMGP13616.jpg

Back side:
http://www.defense-92.fr/liste/Photos/IMGP5551.jpg

The France Telecom Building in its environment:
http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/5564/d21ag5xk9.png

Carpe Diem among future towers:
http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/1619/d25os8en6.png

Like the other towers proposed in La Défense, the Carpe Diem Tower will be fully integrated with the Circular Boulevard and not removed from it as is the case with towers currently standing in La Défense. Carpe Diem Tower aims to create an urban juncture between the concrete slab of La Défense and the streets around La Défense which are a good 20 meters (70 ft) below the concrete slab.

Here are more renderings of Carpe Diem, with captions below each rendering.

http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/1896_1_tour2.jpg

http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/1896_2_tour3.jpg

http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/1896_3_tour4.jpg

http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/1896_4_tour5.jpg

http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/1896_6_tour7.jpg

Two very large renderings:
http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/project/uploaded_files/1896_Rendering%201.jpg
http://www.defense-92.fr/photos/Rendering%202.jpg

[Fabb]

Generali : new rendering

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/3211/newbeurkgnralipi9.jpg

CB31 :

http://img245.imageshack.us/img245/5647/sketchup5pt0.jpg

[Fabb]

CB21 (new tour Gan) :

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3045/2310144995_72a8fdd7b0_b.jpg

[Minato Ku]

Some new renderings of La Defense projects from this video

http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid1315753446/bclid422535580/bctid1449613807

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2268/2320970445_ff0c522e1c_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2420/2321786178_c769791cb5_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2228/2320970117_94ded7ce61_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2331/2321785750_cdab1be285_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2140/2320969683_fa3e3d680d_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3130/2321785340_c9b56acffb_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3045/2320969167_2ab77d42a4_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2243/2320969005_4c73dd8c9c_o.jpg

[Fabb]

Tour signal : the proposals :

http://img87.imageshack.us/img87/7163/image10jd3.png
http://img87.imageshack.us/img87/4488/image9xt3.png
http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/3908/image8jj8.png
http://img81.imageshack.us/img81/3751/image6yz3.png
http://img222.imageshack.us/img222/9995/image7gb6.png

[Minato Ku]

Jacques Ferrier
http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/3356/sanstitre12zg7.png

Norman Foster
http://img81.imageshack.us/img81/3751/image6yz3.png

Studio Libeskind Architect
http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/1002/sanstitre19dc0.png

Wilmotte
http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/5517/sanstitre24pn1.png


Jean Nouvel
http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/9573/sanstitre29vf1.png

The renders are quite bad it is better to see the videos in the official sites.
http://tour-signal-ladefense.com/
http://www.ladefense.fr/goodies_videos.php?id=46#centre

[Grumpy]

I take the Libeskind proposal :)

[Fabb]

I seriously hope that Libeskind won't win.

The best part of Foster's project is that we'll get rid of the awful Scor building.

[Minato Ku]

Norman Foster is my favorite for Signal project.
Ferrier project look good (execpted in rendering).

[Sinha]

New renders of LaDefense:

http://img182.imageshack.us/img182/3270/sanstitre2sl4.png

http://img259.imageshack.us/img259/2662/sanstitre7ur1.png

http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/9995/pr2imgff2.jpg

http://img245.imageshack.us/img245/8185/pr1imgsj5.jpg

http://tour-signal-ladefense.com/fr/pr2.html

http://www.ladefense.fr/

[Sinha]

Foster
http://img394.imageshack.us/img394/524/sanstitre3em4.png
http://tour-signal-ladefense.com/

[Lecom]

That Foster's building is sick.

Foster - what a classy bastard. Always knows how to design a unique and innovative building without resorting to kitch and cheesy gimmicks, while maintaining his own distinct and recognizable style. Take that Gehry, you hack. Drawing up some crazy curves (and getting another firm to design how the hell it's actually gonna work) and reusing the same gimmick doesn't always result in great architecture.

[samoen313]

Hrm. They all have their strengths. But the weakest I would say is Nouvel's proposal. The overall concept of this collage of different volumes composed into a single fairly standard form I find intriguing, though I think the boxiness of it in this case makes it feel like the heaviest proposal. The behemoth television on top (I can't tell, does it rotate? does it have any other functions?) seems a little gimmicky to me. But it's certainly not bad considering what some of Nouvel's other competition entries of late have been.

I like Foster + friends proposal a ton. It echoes the woefully-unbuilt Tour Sans Fin with the glassy, cylindrical shape, though this is significantly girthier, which is my only beef. Otherwise, the comprehensive atrium through the building is really smart environmentally and in program, and the clean, curving lines make it quite elegant. As always, I think this is an astute response to the challenge that is forward-thinking, but with its feet firmly on the ground.

Libeskind's looks really kinetic and dynamic from some angles, and a little sloppy from others. But judging from the sections, this would be a fantastic place to work or visit. To me it slightly resembles his Freedom Tower design, so I always seem a bit skeptical of this really being a Libeskind-trademark stamp building or one in which he took a unique approach. I don't really know.

Wilmotte is my favorite. The volumes are large and fairly simple, but the collision is acrobatic in a way that makes this one seem lighter than its mass would suggest otherwise. In program, I think it is the smartest in opening up space below the tower and separating, then redistributing the functions as it progresses upward. To me, it also responds the best to the skyline of La Defense.

The Ferrier one I like, though his little bit about it didn't make too much sense to me about how it was unique.

I pick Wilmotte.

[Fabb]

http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/3356/sanstitre12zg7.png

I pick that one... therefore it doesn't have a chance.
I suspect that, because of its location (by the river, near Paris) and its size, it'll be rejected with much hostility.

[Minato Ku]

I don't thinks so, why ? because Hermintage had already bought this place.
Even if it is not the project Signal, there is a big chance that a tower would be built here.

[Fabb]

Even if it is not the project Signal, there is a big chance that a tower would be built here.

The fact that the developer owns the plot doesn't mean that the project will be approved.
Anyway, I'll be glad - and surprised - if it is.

[Sinha]

Ferrier

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/5995/43200799mw2.jpg

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/5495/3fbd7.jpg

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/6072/4dws4.jpg

Foster

http://img167.imageshack.us/img167/2741/55068558sx2.jpg

http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/497/95462157cz0.jpg

http://img167.imageshack.us/img167/8209/58215201gy8.jpg

Libeskind

http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/9900/11647322lf6.jpg

http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/2808/15736989mo0.jpg

http://img134.imageshack.us/img134/2345/66427342qo3.jpg

Nouvel

http://img408.imageshack.us/img408/9961/13967953vh4.jpg

http://img408.imageshack.us/img408/7981/22650223ix1.jpg

http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/8740/54527442kf5.jpg


Wilmotte

http://img206.imageshack.us/img206/840/15536107ku0.jpg

http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/775/97119446ht4.jpg

http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/8271/83992761bz7.jpg

http://img245.imageshack.us/img245/5396/74556257lg2.jpg
http://www.lemoniteur-expert.com/diaporama/rubrique.asp?r=5

[Down_Under_the_El]

Can't they build them all? :)

[Minato Ku]

There is rumors (several sources) who said that three of these towers could be build.

[Fabb]

Three towers in the 250-310 m range ?
I'd rather have one 420 m tower.

What's too bad is that the designs by Foster and Libeskind would be extremely appealing if their height was increased by 30 percent or so.

I hate to say that Libeskind's design has more chances of winning, precisely because it's lower than the other ones.

[Sinha]

Another project by DGLA (440m)
http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/2746/sanstitre2kd7.png
http://www.dgla.net/fr/

[Fabb]

^Gaudi-esque proposal.
I like it.

[Tom Servo]

wow. the foster and the nouvel towers are really great! :yes: :yes: :yes:

[Fabb]

According to some rumours, Libeskind's proposal would be over 300 m.
The previously given figure (255 m) would be the roof height.

[Fabb]

http://img368.imageshack.us/img368/2213/signalportzamparc04ar2lg1.jpg

Project by Portzamparc.
Not selected.

[rajaxsonbayboi]

Wow looks awesome! are they all proposed for different spots?

[Fabb]

Wow looks awesome! are they all proposed for different spots?

Almost.
Only Nouvel's and Libeskind's are proposed for the same spot.

[Sinha]

New render:
http://pix.nofrag.com/5/5/1/c18bddebaf15a9cee2f5f872ba64a.jpg

[Sinha]

Signal tower:Two propositions for Nouvel
301m

http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/6459/20080314112338atelierjecp4.jpg
370m
http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/9456/image7gb6ub3.png

[Sinha]

New renders for D2 towers by *Bechu & Sheehan:

http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/849/d2diapojournuitiz5.jpg

http://img136.imageshack.us/img136/9886/d2diapotoityu7.jpg

http://img136.imageshack.us/img136/6554/d2diapopasserellekg3.jpg

http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/6342/d2diapolobbykg1.jpg

http://img220.imageshack.us/img220/2669/d2diapohallfx1.jpg

Architectes Anthony BECHU et Tom SHEEHAN
http://www.bouygues-immobilier.com/jahia/Jahia/corporate/liste_de_projets_IE/d2_diaporama?page=1&image=5

[Sinha]

Air 2 tower-220m

http://img182.imageshack.us/img182/6135/air2diaponuitus0.jpg

http://img20.imageshack.us/img20/3755/air2diapolobbykc8.jpg

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/2292/air2diapoesplanadeod6.jpg

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/8966/air2diapopiedyd5.jpg

http://img167.imageshack.us/img167/4492/air2diapovueextcr0.jpg
Arquitectonica[/quote]
http://www.bouygues-immobilier.com/jahia/Jahia/corporate/liste_de_projets_IE/air2_diaporama?page=1&image=5

[Sinha]

D2 tower

http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/8841/d2plaquette10hc5.jpg

http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/8659/d2plaquette08jc6.jpg

http://img81.imageshack.us/img81/5025/d2plaquette09sj3.jpg

http://img81.imageshack.us/img81/589/d2plaquette11ac4.jpg

http://img81.imageshack.us/img81/4276/d2plaquette12nu6.jpg

http://img81.imageshack.us/img81/9358/d2plaquette13uy4.jpg

http://img81.imageshack.us/img81/5379/d2plaquette14cq2.jpg
http://contributionv3.bouygues-immobilier.com/jahia/webdav/site/bi/shared/IE/projets_en_cours/ie_projets_fiche/D2%20plaquette.pdf

[Fabb]

http://www.stroimontage.ru/files/image/HT1.jpg

Whether Ferrier wins the competition or not, this is eventually going to be built. Or so the rumor says...
I don't know what makes French forumers so positive.

[Fabb]

http://www.propertyweek.com/Pictures/460xAny/g/k/h/nuit.jpg

propertyweek.com (http://www.propertyweek.com/story.asp?sectioncode=297&storycode=3108895&c=1)

The developer, a subsidiary of Russian company Stroïmontage Group, announced at Cannes that it was planning one 309-metre high tower and one 264 metre high tower at its Hermitage towers scheme at La Defense, Paris.

[Sinha]

Ferrier's project
http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/6062/sanstitre2mq5.png

http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/6184/sanstitre9uu9.png

http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/2959/sanstitre7ak9.png
http://www.jacques-ferrier.com/

[KevinFromTexas]

I like that last one a lot. It kind of looks like a pair of flashlights. :haha:

[mr1138]

This thread is extremely difficult to follow! Is there any way each tower could have its own thread? I really love these buildings, but I can't track which ones are proposals and which ones are under construction.

[Goody]

http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/849/d2diapojournuitiz5.jpg

Love this one

[AJphx]

the D2 interiors are amazing

[Fabb]

This thread is extremely difficult to follow! Is there any way each tower could have its own thread? I really love these buildings, but I can't track which ones are proposals and which ones are under construction.

I can answer that easily.

None is under construction.

Granite and T1, that are almost completed, have their own thread :
Granite & T1 (http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/showthread.php?t=78019&page=7)

So has the most interesting construction site in La Défense : the renovation of AXA :
New AXA (http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/showthread.php?t=130516)

[Tom Servo]

Ferrier's project
http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/6062/sanstitre2mq5.png

http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/6184/sanstitre9uu9.png

http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/2959/sanstitre7ak9.png
http://www.jacques-ferrier.com/

:stunned: omg! that is so nice! :( *jealous*

[Sinha]

(By Thanks & Krapulax)

Générali Project 318m

http://shutter12.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/18/007/6F/4F/47/0C/A-OUhXdxKymyvalhk3eMCxOuD5v9yQG401DF.jpg

http://shutter15.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/17/007/7F/F5/FE/FC/ZxclnPAWG2wk85JbK4jXIw21lCACqjVO01E1.jpg

http://shutter14.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/17/009/7F/FF/8F/14/B-XM6VcqgF9i4mL3Yzac+GRwJs7S5cqE01E1.jpg

http://shutter02.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/14/007/3B/8D/DE/25/XQ4Tis-6O0auUMFlESiPJIfI+e+83Dkm01DE.jpg

http://shutter14.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/17/005/7B/BF/65/73/XDnbUFKg18OK2w9RpCCs4xi1A4n5IdkR01DC.jpg

http://shutter14.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/17/006/66/8E/53/33/3xSkZAWJSdKcMbPQyaAtmPwV0uW1kmd801DE.jpg

http://shutter12.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/18/008/56/DF/EF/E7/c3x7nZ82Il4bATM+GPPBAggk6lwSV89J01E1.jpg

http://shutter05.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/13/00E/7F/EE/63/25/N0ZpatphLuT376ZPO-U2nAVD5BdQ6pb001DF.jpg

http://shutter13.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/17/001/5F/2E/B5/77/1aQTkNpveK4H-8a6C4F0vchHSyDpqEA701E0.jpg


On Tuesday 11 March, EPAD presented the teams composed of architects and investors who will
participate in the last stage of selection for the international call for projects launched by EPAD
for the construction of the tour Signal at La Défense.
The winning projects are (into alphabetic order):
-Jacques Ferrier Architectures with Hermitage(310m)
-Foster + Partners Ltd with Compagnie La Lucette(297m)
-Studio Libeskind Architect with ORCO PROPERTY GROUPE(310m)
-Ateliers Jean Nouvel with MEDEA Layetana Desarollos Immobiliarios(301m)
-Wilmotte et Associés SA with Groupe Financière Centuria / Bouygues Immobilier(284m)

For EPAD, the tour Signal project is the means of asserting the specific characteristics of the renewal
of La Défense, particularly through the innovative concept of Very High Emotional Quality ().
Indeed, several major issues govern the project for the tour Signal: above all, it is a question of
creating a High-Rise Building that combines diversity of use with exemplary conduct in matters of
Sustainable Development, in order to renew the image of Europe’s prime business district.
You can find the video of the press conference and the film showing the whole of the scale models
on the Internet site dedicated to the tour Signal project:

Tour Signal - Homepage - Slideshow (http://tour-signal-ladefense.com/)

Several projects of the competition signal could be built but we still have no confirmation.

List

Tour phare:300m(Mayne)-Approved-2013
Tour Générali:300m(Valode&Pistre)-Approved-2012
Tour Gan rénovée:230-270m(Atelier 234)-Approved-2011
Tour CB31:225m-240m(Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates & SRA Architectes)-"Under construction"
Tour Air 2:220m(Arquitectonica- Bernardo Fort-Brescia)-Approved-2011
Tour Majunga:195m(Viguier)-Approved-2010
Tour Carpe Diem:165m(Robert A.M. Stern Architects)-Approved-2011
Tour D2:160m(Béchu & Tom Sheehan)-Approved-2O11
Hôtel 4 étoiles:85m(Vasconi)-Approved-2010

At the end of construction site for:

Granite:184m(Portzamparc)
T1:187m(Valode &Pistre)

[Sinha]

By MIIB
Hermitage Project

_KX1mQALxU8

[Fabb]

(By Thanks & Krapulax)

Several projects of the competition signal could be built but we still have no confirmation.

List

Tour phare:300m(Mayne)-Approved-2013
Tour Générali:300m(Valode&Pistre)-Approved-2012
Tour Gan rénovée:230-270m(Atelier 234)-Approved-2011
Tour CB31:225m-240m(Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates & SRA Architectes)-"Under construction"
Tour Air 2:220m(Arquitectonica- Bernardo Fort-Brescia)-Approved-2011
Tour Majunga:195m(Viguier)-Approved-2010
Tour Carpe Diem:165m(Robert A.M. Stern Architects)-Approved-2011
Tour D2:160m(Béchu & Tom Sheehan)-Approved-2O11
Hôtel 4 étoiles:85m(Vasconi)-Approved-2010


The title of this thread should be edited.
LD is not going to get 13 new towers in the near future.

Besides, there are too many "approved projects" and not enough U/C towers.
I guess that the next one will be gan. Next fall if it's on schedule.

[Sinha]

Signal tower,Foster project:
(by tomtom)

http://rechauffementplanete.free.fr/foster/ScreenShot001.jpg

http://rechauffementplanete.free.fr/foster/ScreenShot002.jpg

http://rechauffementplanete.free.fr/foster/ScreenShot003.jpg

http://rechauffementplanete.free.fr/foster/ScreenShot004.jpg

http://rechauffementplanete.free.fr/foster/ScreenShot005.jpg

http://rechauffementplanete.free.fr/foster/ScreenShot006.jpg

http://rechauffementplanete.free.fr/foster/ScreenShot007.jpg

[Fabb]

New Gan tower

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2052/2421819617_cfbf3eba4b_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2419/2422632336_1a824c6460_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2255/2422632084_d3a2958de3_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3168/2422631816_150fd71dab_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3222/2422631336_d7a0f707c8_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3037/2422637500_9c046b72ed_o.jpg
43rd floor patio.

[SD_Phil]

That Foster tower is incredibly unique. I don't think I've ever seen anything quite like it before. If only half of these towers are built, Paris will be in great shape re: cutting edge architecture.

[Sinha]

Signal tower
http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/8451/1000622df5.jpg

http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/3074/1000623ve3.jpg

http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/241/1000627sp3.jpg

http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/9576/1000624bt7.jpg

http://img134.imageshack.us/img134/8233/1000625xp0.jpg

http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/5567/1000626lx1.jpg