stéphane maupin: M building

'M building' by stéphane maupin, paris, france
all images courtesy of stéphane maupin


paris-based stéphane maupin architectes have recently completed 'M building', an apartment block containing 20 residences
on rue rebière in paris, france. positioned upon a 600 meter long and 25 meter wide plot, a split building form responds to
urban zoning constraints due to its positioning next to a cemetery. eliminating a prominent front elevation, the cascading flats
are oriented towards the middle of the narrow site, opening each unit to sunlight throughout the year and multiple sight lines
into the canopies of nearby mature trees. the 45 degree slopes of the internal faces incline to create a centrally located and shared
rooftop terrace that is illuminated at all times of the day.

incorporating the rhythm and proportions of parisian roofs, each unit is stepped in a disorderly yet predictable manner with
wide terraces that double as hanging gardens. the inward scheme adds an intimate atmosphere, inviting dwellers to communicate
with their neighbors across the void or visit friends without crossing any streets with a linear staircase that connects the lofts,
evoking the feeling of a small village. the external appearance maintains a neutral finish which changes to a shiny metal sheathing,
reflecting light upon the internal surfaces.



street elevation



(left) shared central roof area
(right) paths and terraces connect the split building configuration



cascade of terraces



each loft has a personal balcony or terrace which overlooks the central void and shared roof areas



outward view to the central void and opposing half of the building



loft interior



site plan



floor plan / level 0



floor plan / level 1



floor plan / level 2



section



elevation


project info:


client: paris habitat
team: SM
project: 20 housings
location: rue rebière, paris
date: january 2012
surface: 1800m²
cost: 2 500 000 EUR