five megaliths crafted from blue granite emerge in the south of france

constructed from local granite, megaliths stand as immutable traces of human presence.

Mathieu Collos edited by christina vergopoulou November 11, 2023 3 min

MEGALITHS frame the scenery of ‘Lacaune les Bains’

In the quaint town of ‘Lacaune les Bains’ in the South of France, architects Benoit Maignial and Mathieu Collos embark on a nuanced exploration of an age-old tradition: Megaliths. These enduring markers of human presence, constructed from local granite, stand as immutable traces, carrying the weight of memories within their solid stone core. Seeking to showcase the diverse landscapes of the region, the architects integrate monolithic structures into the unique scenery. Pine forests marshlands and blooming prairies provide a picturesque backdrop for the project. The weather, known for its unpredictable shifts, adds an element of sensory engagement for visitors, turning a touristic visit into a genuine experience.

five megaliths crafted from blue granite emerge in the south of france - 1 — all images by Benjamin Vidal unless stated otherwise

1.5-ton blue granite slabs compose the structures

The concept by Benoit Maignal and Mathieu Collos involves the strategic placement of five distinctive Megaliths across the territory, each designed to resonate with its specific surroundings. Crafted from 1.5-ton blue granite slabs sourced from the local quarry ‘plot’, the Megaliths showcase a deliberate duality. The raw, unpolished side, directly from extraction, contrasts with the meticulously polished backside, casting intricate shadows as visitors approach these towering structures. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, each Megalith serves a purpose—framing a particular view and encouraging contemplation. The architects express a desire to revive the simplest yet most enduring construction forms, using materials extracted from the local soil. Megaliths project stands as a contemporary reinterpretation, rooted in tradition and intimately connected to the distinctive landscapes of the South of France.

five megaliths crafted from blue granite emerge in the south of france - 2 — Megaliths project carries forward the tradition with a contemporary touch

five megaliths crafted from blue granite emerge in the south of france - 3 — unpolished sides contrast with meticulously polished backs, casting intricate shadows

five megaliths crafted from blue granite emerge in the south of france - 4 — the monolithic structures are strategically placed amidst the diverse landscapes of the region

megaliths-france-benoit-maignal-mathieu-collos-designboom-1800-1 — Megaliths as enduring elements harmonize with the region’s natural beauty

five megaliths crafted from blue granite emerge in the south of france - 5 — five distinctive Megaliths resonate with specific surroundings across the territory

megaliths-france-benoit-maignal-mathieu-collos-designboom-1800-3 — 1.5-ton blue granite slabs are meticulously selected from the nearby area

five megaliths crafted from blue granite emerge in the south of france - 6 — the Ancient Statue Menhir stands in ‘Peyrot Levado’, Lacaune | image by Benoit Maignial

project info:

name: MEGALITHS
architect: Benoit Maignal | @maignialarchitectes – Mathieu Collos | @mathieucollos_architecture

location: Lacaune les Bains, France

photography: Benjamin Vidal – Benoit Maignial

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