Our proposal is based upon exisitng energies already in progress before the invitation to tender.

During the competition, an informal communication process is established, which allows to hear from inhabitants, tradesmen, or users, representatives of associations, committees, structures in place, and representatives of the local authorities and institutions. These contacts with actors on and off the site give a clear picture of what's needed in the neighbourhood:

- a place for the inhabitants
- revitalization neighbourly commerce in Malibran street
- meeting points
- a place for sport
- nature
- water

One of the stakes is to preserve the character of the square, with all the uses that have characterized it throughout the years. The project easily accomodates the market, the circus and the fair, and other activities remain possible.

The density rations of the square are stimulated and clarified by the installation of a structure that defines new spaces and new uses. The changes in traffic management have the purpose of giving the square back to the pedestrian.

The landscape intervention questions and proposes appropriations by deliberate continuities and fractures. The plants and trees define various significant and subtle scales.

A slab hoovers 5 m high, aligned with the hoods of the existing buildings. It stretches along the Vleurgat / Malibran axis. With its presence, the structure defines an empty space in the square, and gives it a backdrop. It shelters a hoist of activities: sports and promenades on top, and beneath, benches, bus stop, fries stand, kiosk, night shop... A life is developped under it: markets, exchanges, waitings, stops, exposure times,…

At night, it illuminates the square, becoming a “balcony”. Sports being a crucial element within the community, it's important to stress its role by integrating it into the architectural act, which enables it to take its own space.