Seven buildings clustered like grapes. This is Lotissement la Bastide des Oliviers. A hidden gem in Marseille’s 13th arrondissement. It’s a residential haven nestled between Saint-Just and Malpassé.
Lotissement la Bastide des Oliviers is more than just apartments. It’s a piece of Marseille’s architectural history. Built between 1964 and 1967 by architects Georges Lefèvre and Jean Agopian. It’s a testament to mid-century modern design.
Imagine a 13,530-square-meter park. A sloping landscape. It’s where Lotissement la Bastide des Oliviers stands. The buildings are arranged around a central courtyard. They turn their backs on the neighboring ZUP. This is a purposeful design choice. It emphasizes privacy and tranquility. A protected oasis despite its proximity to the city’s more densely populated areas.
The architecture is a delightful mix of styles. The buildings are two to four stories high. Their facades are coated in panels. Notice the subtle color palette. Beige and various shades of green. It’s a charming touch. The loggias face south. This maximizes sunlight and offers stunning views.
The layout is unique. It’s reminiscent of garden city plans. Smaller pockets of housing. They’re independent of the main roads. The buildings are arranged around a shared courtyard. A planned irregularity. It avoids symmetrical compositions. This is a clear departure from the city-garden concept.
Each apartment is thoughtfully designed. The living spaces offer transparency. The ground floor maximizes openness and fluidity. The design promotes a sense of community. It enhances the architectural promenade through the courtyard.
This is Lotissement la Bastide des Oliviers. It’s not just a housing development. It’s a carefully considered architectural design. It’s a harmonious blend of nature and modern living. A place where the past informs the present. A true hidden gem in the heart of Marseille. A place of quiet sophistication. A testament to thoughtful design. It’s a slice of 1960s Marseille. A story woven into the very fabric of the city.