Bastide La Maurelette

Deep in the heart of Marseille, nestled amongst prestigious bastides like Saint Joseph and La Delorme, lies Bastide La Maurelette. This isn’t just another old building. Bastide La Maurelette represents a fascinating blend of history, architecture, and social vision. The original bastide, dating back to the 1960s, was integrated into a larger project. This project, a “unité de voisinage,” aimed to create a vibrant community space. It combined housing with essential amenities like shops, healthcare facilities, and cultural centers. The architects, Eugène, Pierre, and Jacques Chirié, envisioned a space that prioritized the residents’ quality of life. They weren’t just building apartments. They were crafting a neighborhood. Bastide La Maurelette stands as a testament to their vision. The design cleverly incorporates elements of traditional Mediterranean urban planning. A series of pedestrian plazas and patios, reminiscent of places like Lenche and Montyon, are woven into the fabric of the residence. These spaces are strictly car-free, creating a safe and inviting environment for residents to stroll and socialize. The layout also features a mix of low-rise buildings and towers, creating a dynamic and visually interesting skyline. Originally, the facades were adorned with a vibrant polychrome of pâte de verre, designed by the colorist Bernard Lassus. While this striking feature has since been replaced with mineral paint, it speaks to the initial ambition and artistry of the project. What truly sets Bastide La Maurelette apart is its collaborative spirit. The project involved not just architects and engineers, but also sociologists, landscape architects, and even a colorist. This interdisciplinary approach ensured that the final product addressed the needs and desires of the community it served. Bastide La Maurelette remains a compelling example of how thoughtful urban planning can create a thriving and harmonious living environment. It invites us to rethink how we build our communities. It encourages us to prioritize not just functionality, but also beauty, social connection, and the well-being of residents.