2portzamparc

The new Amphitheater district, created in February 2000 on the site of the former freight yard, is one of the city of Metz’s key development priorities.
This 37-hectare ZAC (Joint Development Zone), whose master plan was designed by Agence Nicolas Michelin et Associés, will be centered around a new street. Its development plan features a strong mix of urban functions (1,500 housing units, 50,000 m² of office and retail space) and major metropolitan facilities: the Centre Pompidou Metz and the Palais des Congrès.
2Portzamparc was responsible for the urban planning of Block E.3, with a maximum gross floor area (SHON) of 45,000 m², and for the project management of the final block, Block E 3.7, located in the southern part of the ZAC.
This block serves as the southern gateway to the Amphithéâtre ZAC, located at the corner of Rue Courbe and Rue Lothaire. The lot, which is elongated and rectangular in shape, has a 124-meter-long frontage along Rue Lothaire.

Built on a shared base that includes parking and retail spaces, the nine residential buildings are organized according to the “open block” concept.
The lot is divided into two parts, separated by a pedestrian walkway and a landscaped staircase that leads to the heart of the site, as well as four landscaped viewing areas that punctuate the street and create an open, airy feel within the block. As a result, the façade facing Rue Lothaire avoids a long, continuous built-up front, offering views of the terraced gardens and inviting people to climb up to them.
The staircase, accessible from Rue Lothaire, connects to the northern path and divides the block in two.