danica o. kus photographs jean nouvel-designed philharmonie de paris

conceived as the french capital’s first great concert hall, the philharmonie de paris opened in january 2015. the building was designed by acclaimed architect jean nouvel, who later separated himself from the project, citing misleading press reports that attribute the scheme’s increased cost to his firm.

a spiraling aluminum form surrounds the central concert hall, contrasting an angled matt envelope that is coated in a repeated bird mosaic. primarily designed to house the paris orchestra, the complex is part of a greater educational vision with a program that includes a 2,400 seat auditorium, six rehearsal studios, classrooms for workshops, as well as an exhibition gallery and café. the site acts as a bridge between the city center and the adjacent suburbs, a notion reflected in the interior, where the intimate seating wraps around the stage. slovenian photographer danica o. kus recently photographed the building, which is located in paris’ parc de la villette.

the building was conceived as the french capital’s first great concert hall
all images © danica o. kus

reflective aluminum contrasts the matt mosaic finish

the bird mosaic is repeated throughout the scheme

the building is primarily designed to house the paris orchestra

the complex includes a 2,400 seat auditorium, six rehearsal studios, and classrooms for workshops

the angular structure climbs to a total height of 52 meters

the sheltered entrance leads to an internal foyer

jean nouvel won the competition to complete the project in 2007

the building is located in paris’ parc de la villette

the site acts as a bridge between the city center and the surrounding suburbs

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