The complex rehabilitation of "206 Lafayette" in Paris, by the Redman Group, was awarded a SIMI 2025 Grand Prix.

This award, which comes in addition to the 10+1 Architecture Prize and the 2024 Silver Square Award, recognizes the exemplary and complex transformation of nine buildings with varying architectural styles, materials, and levels of disrepair. This project also served as a precursor to the key principles of the City of Paris's bioclimatic Local Urban Development Plan (PLU), which was subsequently established. The nearly 10.300 m² project, designed by DATA Architectes and THINK TANK Architecture, blends heritage and innovation, preserving 68% of the existing structure, reusing materials, incorporating timber frames, and featuring a double-skin bioclimatic facade.

Located in the 10th arrondissement of Paris, at the intersection of Rue Lafayette and Rue du Faubourg-Saint-Martin, the "206 Lafayette" complex comprised nine mixed-use buildings (offices, apartments, and shops) whose varying degrees of disrepair necessitated extensive and technical renovation. The decision was therefore made to transform it into a vibrant, mixed-use neighborhood, fully integrated into a dynamic environment, while preserving as many of the existing buildings and their diverse architectural identities as possible.

To carry out this large-scale project, the Redman Group, commissioned by La Financière Saint-James and the Madar Group, undertook considerable consultation work with, in particular, the City of Paris, the Architect of the Buildings of France and even the Commission of Old Paris.

This restructuring of heritage buildings, in a dense urban environment with many neighboring buildings, constituted a real technical and architectural challenge.

Firstly, due to its layout, as the buildings were spread out on either side, as well as at the entrance to a narrow cul-de-sac, limiting the space for movement during the upcoming construction work. Secondly, due to the variety of architectural styles (suburban and Haussmannian), structures, and building materials dating from the 17th to the 20th centuries.

It was therefore agreed to give each building a customized treatment based on its specific characteristics. Five general contractors, four facade companies, and a multitude of specialists dedicated to finishes and technical constraints were involved in this project, which was designed to evolve according to the expectations of future tenants.

Four buildings, representing 60% of the project, were renovated. Five others were demolished in consultation with the City and the Architect of the Buildings of France. Finally, two new low-carbon buildings, constructed using a hybrid wood/prefabricated concrete system, were built in their place. They benefit from a bioclimatic design and a "double skin" covering part of the south facade to better regulate temperature. The site, which has a positive biodiversity focus, has been extensively landscaped (open ground and plants), including on the rooftop, to reduce the urban heat island effect and promote local wildlife. Finally, 68% of the existing surface area was preserved, and 2.500 m² of raised floors were salvaged and reused.

The new "206 Lafayette," a vibrant and welcoming community hub, now brings together offices and coworking spaces, social housing, and local shops around a landscaped walkway. Scheduled for completion at the end of 2024, the nearly 10.300 m² project is certified BREEAM, BBCA, HQE, and E+C-.

Initiated before Paris's bioclimatic Local Urban Plan (PLU), this project foreshadowed the key principles subsequently adopted by the City. "206 Lafayette" has already received a 10+1 Architecture Prize and the 2024 Silver Square Award.

According to Matthias Navarro, co-founder and co-CEO of the Redman Group: “We are very proud to see the ‘206 Lafayette’ distinguished with a third award. This SIMI 2025 Grand Prix testifies to the ability of the Redman Group teams to meet the technical challenges and complexities inherent in major renovations. It also highlights the need for good cooperation from all stakeholders – elected officials, investors, architects, developers, and construction companies – to successfully complete a project of this scale.”