Seven buildings. That’s what makes up the Parc Sévigné. A residential complex built in the early 1960s. It sits in Marseille’s 9th arrondissement in the Sainte-Marguerite neighborhood. Right here on Boulevard de Sévigné.
This isn’t just any housing project. It’s a testament to post-war reconstruction and a bold vision for urban living. The architects André Chrysocheris and Jacques Berthelot created something unique. They designed seven buildings. Three towers. Three long buildings. A smaller one. The eastern towers rise 23 stories. The western tower has 19. The long buildings have varying heights from 3 to 20 floors. Almost a thousand apartments in total.
The Parc Sévigné is more than just apartments. It’s built on the land of the old Magalone estate. This land encompassed what you see today. Parc Sévigné. The Petites Magalones residence. The Magalone garden with its old mansion. Even the Cité Radieuse is nearby. The planning kept an old path. It cuts through Rue Mignard. This street divides Parc Sévigné and Nouveau Parc Sévigné. It offers a clear view of the Cité Radieuse. The Sévigné towers stand out in return from the Cité Radieuse’s roof.
The buildings are clever. The architects incorporated shops. A supermarket. A small medical center. Covered galleries link the buildings. The main gallery has patios. It’s a fascinating contrast to the Cité Radieuse. The Cité Radieuse is raised on stilts. All amenities are incorporated. The Parc Sévigné connects buildings and urban life at ground level. It was one of the first complexes designed this way. An innovative way of thinking about housing for the time. A truly unique part of Marseille’s history.
Built under the Logécos policy of 1953. This policy encouraged home ownership for modest families. Construction permits were issued between 1957 and 1963. The Parc Sévigné was a precursor to many modern housing developments. A symbol of a city rebuilding and looking toward the future. A testament to the architects’ bold vision and a crucial part of Marseille’s development. A beautiful reminder of post-war innovation. Stand here. Feel the history. The innovative design of this complex is clear. Enjoy the legacy of Parc Sévigné.