The iconic production house Rouchon Paris has entrusted the design of its third studio of 1300m2 in Aubervilliers to Delordinaire Architects. For more than 30 years, Rouchon Paris has welcomed prestigious clients (Louis Vuitton, Hermès, the artist Angèle, etc.) to its studios where they can produce image content (photo, video) for their communication.
Sébastien Rouchon and his team worked closely with Delordinaire to develop a concept that transcends numerous logistical constraints, transforming a former industrial warehouse into an emblematic creative space.
The logistical requirements for the space are substantial including lighting, set designs and film equipment. consists of 2 large format photography cycloramas, a mezzanine level catering space, fitting rooms and areas dedicated to make-up/hairdressing.
Erwan Levêque, co-founder of Delordinaire, explains: “The design is a study in the relationship between the mercantile and the aesthetic. Obviously, it was necessary to prioritise technical requirements but we felt that this could become part of the overall atmosphere and the space could still be aesthetically beautiful. The vaulted wooden mezzanine was our starting point. It is an iconic gesture on the scale of the existing warehouse structure.”
Below this monumental curve overlooking the main hallway, the design is articulated through two key materials: earth and wood. Raw earth bricks are used for the walls at ground level. They form a dense base layer to the overall composition and the acoustic and temperature regulating properties of the material produce a calmness throughout the space. The bricks are made locally from excavated earth reducing the environmental impact of the project. Similarly, the cross laminated timber (CLT) used for the mezzanine is a low impact construction method.
In parallel with the architecture and as for each of their projects, Delordinaire has designed furniture and fittings: work desks in granite and wood, the reception counter in earth bricks, sanitary facilities in stainless steel and catering spaces in stained wood.
“Our architecture is anchored in the study of everyday rituals and practices. We aspire to create architecture that ‘resonates’ with people: sensory places, places that bring people together.” explains Adrian Hunfalvay, co-founder of Delordinaire. The finished space is a refined composition of the grandiose industrial scale and the detail and warmth of raw material textures.
Team:
Architects: Delordinaire
Structural work: Leprieur
Electricity: SME
Structural engineering: Securicom
Photographer: James Nelson
Materials Used:
Plumbing, wood cladding quote: Marv
Metal framework : ACDF
Furniture: Dix dix
Metal doors: Fr metal
Painting: Vp
Lifts: Euroascenceur
Bet structure: In4
Heating and airco: Alize clim
Structure: CLT (Cross laminated timber)
Flooring: Solid red wood
Doors: Red wood veneer
Interior lighting: sammode
Interior walls: Recycled raw earth bricks
