Arborescence signifies our research approach to integrating nature with well-being in an urban context. The 35-metre-tall vertical garden winning scheme of the “IMAGINE ANGERS” competition represents our architectural reimagination of a building that connects nature with the urban environment, from the Maine River to the city centre.
Project Name: Arborescence
Studio Name: WY-TO architects
Location: Angers, France
Client: VINCI Immobilier
Timeline: 05/2017 – 05/2024
Partner: Crespy-Aumont architects (Co-design and Construction)
Total Area: 8 200 m2
Consultants:
Masterplanners: Alter, City of Angers
Landscape Architects: MOZ Paysage, Guillaume Sevi
Structure Engineers: Serba-Novam | MEP: Nergik
Acoustic Specialists: Reflex acoustique
Security and Safety Specialists: SOCOTEC
Collaborators: BRIAND Construction, Savoie Construction, Groupe Luc DURAND, FREMY PEINTURE DECORATION, Atelier Lacour, Hervé thermique, VAUGEOIS Electronique, Ovelia Résidences Seniors, Babilou
Photographers’ Credits: Svend ANDERSEN, Juan CARDONA
The mixed-use development leverages our France-Singapore background to distinguish herself with abundant greenery present at every level. The building’s orientation allows each living space to benefit from ample natural light, cross-ventilation and clear expansive sky views. Thus, nurturing an environment centred on well-being.
Furthering the emphasis is an intergenerational programming strategy. The shared central garden, accessible to all during the day, transforms into a vibrant place for pre-schoolers, working professionals, seniors, and even the public to converge and gather. Thereby, strengthening the social fabric and nurturing empathy.
The green roof and terraces contribute beyond thermal insulation. These bioclimatic initiatives reduce environmental impact, promote biodiversity, and address urban density challenges.
Embodying an innovative and integrative approach, Arborescence presents a holistic sustainable solution that connects Nature, People and the urban environment in the horticultural capital of France.
Biophilic Architecture
Rooting Arborescence is the concept of Biophilia, which places nature at the heart of well-being. Its biophilic architecture creates a harmonious balance between people and surroundings through the greenery and natural light at every level. Green outdoor spaces and panoramic terrace views advocate for a light-hearted and positive atmosphere. In reconnecting people with nature, Arborescence reinnovates a healthy living environment for modern well-being needs in an urban context.
Well-Being
Central to the architectural ensemble of Arborescence is well-being that culminates to its fluid geometry and abundant greenery. The towering “Tree of Life” that stands at the green heart of the development contributes to a natural and inviting environment with pleasant views in summer. Generous terraces and extended living spaces provides moments of rejuvenation, while wooden soffits envelop residents in a cocoon-like embrace. By combining wood with nature, Arborescence provides an alternative to urban concrete living and encourages social interactions through shared green common areas.
Bioclimatism
Arborescence harmonises with the site’s context by harnessing prevailing winds and optimizing sunlight. The South-facing façade that stretches from East to West, maximizes solar gain in winter, while balconies become sunshades in summer, protecting outdoor areas. Plants in the open ground enhance cool island effects, promoting bioclimatism. The multi-oriented housing units provide residents with natural cross-ventilation, while undulating terraces allow unobstructed sky views, ensuring comfort and well-being.
Technicality Of The Vertical Garden, A Response To Density
Arborescence advocates biodiversity and integrates into urban ecological corridors—an asset that benefits all, with green roof and planted terraces. The mixed-use development, consisting of 122 housing units, includes a senior living, nursery, various amenities, and offices, spans 2,600 m² at ground level, offering a total of 8,900 m². It balances density and provides a sustainable and harmonious alternative to urban sprawl through abundant greenery and open spaces at every level.
Diversity As A Social Link
Shaping the overall narrative is a unique intergenerational approach. The central garden converges all circulation and connects the different programmes – nursery, senior living, residential units, and offices – even welcoming the general public during the day. In the same community-building spirit, green spaces and common areas are designed to encourage serendipitous encounters through fostering interaction among diverse groups.
Interconnection Of Programmes And Architectural Response
Arborescence blends seamlessly into its exceptional site. The three façades articulate a diversity of uses while balancing technical requirements and regulations. Spaces are organised in interlocking layers to achieve dedicated access to each function while creating generous common spaces such as the hall and central garden. The ground floor houses offices, a nursery, and senior amenities; the podium is reserved for senior living; and the upper levels are accessible for residential units, an urban cottage, and a wellness centre.
Intergenerational Spaces
The programmatic diversity of Arborescence fosters a vibrant, non-linear sense of place. Common areas become serendipitous meeting points for seniors, children, adults, and students to connect. The development mirrors the concept of the once commonly sighted multi-generational homes to spur organic opportunities for empathy.
