Contemplate the interplay of light and shadow on a canvas of red, white, and blue. That is Tour La Marseillaise.
La Marseillaise is an office skyscraper in Marseille. It is a part of the Les Quais d’Arenc development. The Tour La Marseillaise is located near the CMA CGM Tower. The CMA CGM Tower is the city’s tallest building.
This impressive structure stands 135 meters tall. That is 443 feet. It has 31 floors. Construction began in 2015. It concluded in 2018. Constructa Urban Systems developed it. Ateliers Jean Nouvel designed it. The tower is known for its tricolor facade design. In 2018, it ranked second in the Emporis Skyscraper Award.
Jean Nouvel envisioned a tower that captures the city’s waterfront reflection. The facade boasts 27 shades of red, white, and blue. These colors mirror the sky, clouds, and surrounding areas. Light and fiber concrete add to its unique look. It gives the impression of an unfinished artwork.
The architect, Jean Nouvel, says the colors represent more than the French flag. The blue is for the sky, the sea, and the Olympique de Marseille soccer team. The white symbolizes the horizon and sea foam. The red is inspired by the rooftops of the Le Panier district.
The Tour La Marseillaise is the second tallest building in Marseille. The CMA CGM Tower is taller. Nouvel says La Marseillaise dances with the CMA CGM Tower.
Constructa’s CEO wanted to create a new image of towers. He asked children to draw a tower. Eighty percent drew the 9/11 attacks. He wanted to change that perception with La Marseillaise.
The construction involved many companies. Dumez Méditerranée led the project. Crudeli, SNEF, and Kone also participated. Alto, Arcora, Sidf, Aedis, Serius, and Avel were involved.
The Tour La Marseillaise cost 200 million euros before taxes. The Caisse d’Epargne Provence-Alpes-Corse supported the project. The Caisse des dépôts and Constructa-Vinci also helped.
The Tour La Marseillaise is more than a building. It embodies Marseille’s spirit. It is a blend of art, architecture, and local pride. The tower stands as a symbol of innovation. It reflects the vibrant colors of Marseille itself.