Square de l’Avre

Why “Avre,” you might wonder, as we stand before Square de l’Avre? It’s a peculiar name for a square nestled in Boulogne-Billancourt. The answer lies far from the bustling streets of Paris, in a river flowing through the Eure region. That river, also called the Avre, was once tapped to quench the thirst of Parisians. Its waters journeyed through an aqueduct, a bridge north of Boulogne bearing its name. This watery connection, though seemingly tenuous, links the Square de l’Avre to a distant source. Square de l’Avre wasn’t always the pleasant space we see today. In the 1920s, this area was a stark contrast to the idyllic postcards of the time. The land was covered with dilapidated buildings, housing families of workers struggling in poverty. While Renault’s factories brought jobs and fueled population growth, they didn’t provide housing for their workers. Many families crammed into shabby furnished rooms or makeshift shacks. Then, in the 1930s, Mayor André Morizet launched a major social housing project. The most ambitious undertaking was the construction of Square de l’Avre and Square des Moulineaux. Between 1929 and 1932, these yellow brick buildings rose on the former site of a tramway depot. Located between Avenue des Moulineaux and the Seine, next to the cemetery, the square offered a fresh start for many. The construction was overseen by the Public Housing Office of the Seine department, a precursor to modern social housing. The municipality provided the land at very advantageous terms. The architects, Bassompierre, de Rutte, and Sirvin, were known for their “Garden City of Greater Paris” project. Square des Moulineaux faces Avenue Pierre Grenier, while Square de l’Avre fronts the quay. When the apartments opened in 1931, their 973 units offered unprecedented luxury. Families could finally enjoy separate bedrooms, private bathrooms with hot water, and even individual toilets. These amenities, now commonplace, were revolutionary for the time. Pierre Damiro, who moved into the square at age 12, recalled the joy of having space to run around and multiple windows letting in light. He remembered his mother’s relief at finally having hot water and a proper place to do laundry. Square de l’Avre, with its many balconies overlooking the Seine, was designed to provide “air and sun.” Large arched porches provided street access. Shops, a doctor, a pharmacist, and a dentist were conveniently located on the ground floor. The square became a vibrant community, with children playing freely and families celebrating together. Life thrived within its walls. It felt like a large, welcoming village. The sense of confinement only came later, with the arrival of cars. In 1992, a major renovation addressed the lack of space and outdated facilities. 780 apartments were remodeled. 286 new units were added, offsetting the demolition of 150 others. Underground parking was introduced, freeing the surface from cars. Now, decades later, Square de l’Avre stands as a testament to a transformative period in Boulogne-Billancourt’s history.