Debarre Duplantiers Associés Architecture & Paysage | Leyteire Square

in Urban Design by editor — 1:22 pm | October 9, 20120 comments

The historical centre of Bordeaux University sets a new beginning : the Opération Campus begins with urban design at its heart. These spaces are currently closed, intended solely for receiving deliveries, however the project intends to turn them into a lively heart of the University, where intermingling can take place. The initial meaning of “campus” can be retrieved through an intense central green space.

© Arthur Péquin

© Arthur Péquin

This series of courtyards becomes a network of interactive spaces, as well as a part of the city : a number of facilities animate the center of the square (museum, café , amphitheaters) and contribute to its urban value. The addition of planted elements lends a human scale to the existing hardscape by providing shade, delineating paths, and acting to filter air, sound, and light that enters the space. This, in turn, combats the Urban Heat Island Effect, providing more pleasant interior spaces during the hot summer months. In plan, a certain hierarchy is established between the wide-open center, and more intimate spaces along the space’s edges. This variety of spaces invites a wide range of activities common for a university campus, from eating lunch in the sun, to meeting with colleagues and professors, to hosting celebrations and festivals.

© Arthur Péquin

DDA Biography
Established in 2007, Debarre Duplantiers Associés architects, landscape architects and urban designers, is a highly ambitious design led practice, with a proven track record across a broad spectrum of sectors and scales. Our architecture comes out of a rigorous design process, gathering two antagonist moments: the first being the most open, experimental and almost naïve attitude followed by a rational, well-balanced and cost-effective thinking. This process is communicated through a range of media, enabling a wide series of opportunities to be explored.

© Arthur Péquin

We are truly influenced by the unique attributes of each site and its context, seeking out the qualities that contribute to a sense of place; qualities which will remain all along the project’s life. Our unique multi-disciplinary approach is a key element in the success of our projects. By thinking architecture through landscape, urban dimension and human scale, one challenges the very essence of an architectural project.

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