Le complexe Docteur Pierre

The building designed by the Reichen et Robert et Associés studio is part of the regeneration project for the site that originally housed Dr Pierre Mussot’s toothpaste factory. In 1837, in Asnières, Dr Pierre Mussot started producing toothpastes and powders based on alcoholic mint extract, on an industrial scale. In 1900 he moved the business to Nanterre where it continued operating until 1940. The nineteenth-century factory is classed as an architectural heritage site and a cultural centre of Nanterre; a new complex was built next to it, including offices, open-plan spaces, and even a residential area.  The distinctive architectural features of the new building are its white ventilated façades made of rectangular KRION® Solid Surface blocks featuring circular voids that create graphic movement on the façade. The other element is the internal garden conceived as a visual outlet for the offices and for all the activities housed in the building; it is also meant to offer shade and a space for rest during lunch breaks over the warmer seasons.

The garden was designed by Atelier Format Paysage. They decided to include Typha luminaires in the space, aiming to create small islands of light that blend into the vegetation. Recessed Light Up Walk and Balisage luminaires illuminate the walkways with grazing light effects, whereas the general lighting in the communal areas near the garden is provided by ceiling-mounted Cup luminaires.