Standing tall before us is the Résidence Super Montparnasse. It is not just another building. It’s a story etched in glass and steel. The Résidence Super Montparnasse is a residential tower conceived by architect Bernard Zehrfuss. It rises along the railway tracks leading to Gare Montparnasse.
Completed in 1969, the Résidence Super Montparnasse has 30 floors. It includes 265 apartments. Its design features a cross-shaped layout. This allows each apartment to enjoy dual exposure.
Notice the building’s unique facade. It was originally clad in glass paste. This gave it a distinctive look. Over time, the glass began to deteriorate.
A major renovation project began in 2014. The goal was to improve energy efficiency. Architects CODA Lair & Roynette Architectes and Architecture Pélegrin oversaw the project.
The renovation replaced the glass with exterior insulation. Metal cladding was added too. Double-glazed windows were installed. These changes significantly improved the building’s acoustic and thermal performance.
The renovation aimed for the BBC label. BBC means bâtiment basse consommation. This means low-energy consumption building. The Résidence Super Montparnasse was transformed from an energy drain to an energy-efficient building.
Bernard Zehrfuss also designed other notable structures. These include the UNESCO headquarters and the Danish Embassy. His vision shaped the Parisian skyline.
The Résidence Super Montparnasse is connected to the Tour Pitard. Tour Pitard is an office building. Together, they form a unique architectural pair.
The entrance features a raw concrete portico. The interior decoration of the ground floor was designed by l’œuf. This design team added a touch of elegance.
Originally, the Résidence Super Montparnasse had a swimming pool and solarium on its roof. This was a popular feature for luxury buildings at the time. Imagine residents relaxing high above the city.
In 2016, the renovation received awards. It won the Grand Prix du Jury and the Grand Prix Rénovation Durable de Construction 21. These awards recognized its sustainable renovation.
The Résidence Super Montparnasse stands as a testament to architectural innovation. It also shows commitment to energy efficiency. It is a proud part of Paris’s architectural heritage. This building blends history with modern sustainability. It offers a glimpse into the future of urban living.