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/// WHAT'S HOT / Report: New kids on the BLOCK

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BLOCK PARTY
Whilst an ever-expanding Paris redefines its
contours every day, the more recent urban-design
projects in France's larger cities are reaching new
heights in the outskirts.

Tower blocks are becoming greener, more attractive and
more humane: the embodiment of the architecture in new
global cities. Previously symbolic of run-down housing
estates in desolate and dehumanised landscapes, they
now seamlessly integrate into the urban landscape. More
than just a communal living space, they have become
iconic symbols in many capital cities, responding to
the needs of their inhabitants as well as rising to the
challenges of sustainable development.
Designed by the world’s most renowned architects, these
new iconic structures of the cities of tomorrow provide
a counterbalance to the ever-increasing density of the
population. In this spirit, Rennes is once again building
upwards with its ambitious 26-storey Samsic project.
Toulouse has hired Daniel Libeskind, the architect
behind the new World Trade Center, whilst Marseille
is set to become a new jewel in the architectural crown
with its skyline designed by Jean Nouvel, Zaha Hadid
and Hala Wardé.