Just a few steps from Paris, between the renowned towns of Vincennes and Nogent sur Marne, lies Fontenay sous Bois. The city is known for its high quality of life and its green surroundings. Here, the Résidence Opaline was built, a modern residential complex that harmoniously blends architecture and nature, offering its residents a peaceful yet stylish place to live.
The proximity to the expansive Bois de Vincennes as well as the abundance of parks and landscaped squares lends everyday life here a relaxed and nature-oriented character. Strolls beneath tall trees, picnics in the park, or a short escape into nature are part of the lifestyle, complemented by the charm of a welcoming neighborhood. The green spaces are impressively diverse, spread across three parks, eleven squares, three gardens, sixteen playgrounds, and one nature reserve.
The Résidence Opaline was created in line with the guiding principle of the “Vivre l’Îlot Pasteur” concept, which focuses on creating generous green spaces and open sight lines.
At the heart of the block lies a landscaped area with tree-lined paths that emphasizes the contemporary and human scale of the architecture. On Rue Pasteur, a distinctive archway marks the entrance to a planted pedestrian pathway leading to three residential buildings.
The architecture is arranged in terraced floors, complemented by pergolas and planters that give the ensemble an airy and green identity. This creates a harmonious dialogue between built form and nature.
The four buildings are separated by green open spaces and connected via a landscaped pedestrian path. The 45 apartments, ranging from studios to four-room maisonettes, feature bright and comfortable layouts. Most offer private outdoor areas such as gardens, balconies, or spacious terraces.
The Paris-based architectural practice Atelier PHILÉAS selected our RECKLI Formliner 2/169 Columbia for the façades. The design features a wave-like curtain structure, with varying widths and depths ranging from 8 to 36 millimeters, giving the concrete a dynamic yet light appearance. Inspired by the flowing lines of a delicate fabric, the façade appears to be in motion, creating a constantly changing interplay of shadow and sheen depending on the light.