Parc de la Rouvraie 18-24

Situation

Each offers thirty-seven apartments of varying sizes. Their construction dates back to a time when asbestos, known for its resistance to heat, fire and tension and for its absorbent properties, was still little-known for its harmful, even lethal effects.

Program

Removal and renovation, a two-stage operation. The main objectives of the project were to eliminate all traces of asbestos in the renovated rooms. In the common areas, the aim was to refresh the four stairwells, replace the elevators and carry out safety work in the basement. No work was required on the load-bearing structure.

The nature of removal and renovation work is totally different.

The former are so dangerous that workers are practically dressed in cosmonaut suits, and naturally require a home that is free of inhabitants and completely sealed to prevent the spread of fibers.

Renovation, however penalizing it may be, can be carried out with existing tenants, provided that minimum precautions are taken.

Beneficiaries of the work are all the more willing to put up with the hassle when they know they’re going to enjoy the benefits.

Design

Apartment by apartment. Asbestos removal was carried out apartment by apartment, with each apartment emptied and insulated for a week, over a period of seventy-four weeks.

Other work included laying new tiles and earthenware in the kitchens and bathrooms, installing woodchip paper and painting the lobbies. Thus cleaned up and renovated, the two buildings, which benefit from a beautiful view and the wooded surroundings at the foot of Sauvabelin hill, are ready for a new lease of life.