Constellation MEP-PAV-Étoile
2013
City of Geneva, DU / OU / DMO PAV, Municipality of Carouge, Geneva, Lancy, Association Etoile
Geneva, Switzerland
Business, housing, public amenities
400'000 sqm
Riken Yamamoto & Field Shop, Yokohama and Hosoya Schaefer Architects AG, Zürich
Competition with pre-qualification
Topotek1, Berlin
IBV Hüsler AG, Zürich
Pöyry, Zürich, Vevey
Space Syntax, London
Mountainworks, Amsterdam; Gratry Development, Geneva
Cities are a collective achievement. The project Étoile specifically requires a patient and organic process over many years with multiple stakeholders. It needs a combination of top-down definitions and flexibility for bottom-up initiatives.
Hosoya Schaefer proposed a constellation of disciplines for an integrated planning approach. These included open spaces for a rich and livable environment, built volumes for a clear identity on a large scale, and a well sculpted urban fabric on a small scale. Zoning rules allow for accessibility and for flexibility in negotiating with public and private interests.
The entire site is programmed as mixed-use. Ground floor uses such as commerce and public functions form a base. Housing defines the outline of the urban blocks with access to green areas, while office space is located in the landmark towers and throughout the lots.
The masterplan is a flexible and adaptable instrument, incorporating from the start ideas for process, phasing, events, and communication. Its aim is to combine the urban with the human scale.
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