Arbre Blanc (which translates to ‘white tree’) is a new multipurpose tower in Montpellier, France designed for housing, a restaurant, an art gallery, offices, a bar with a panoramic view and a common area.

From the project’s concept phase, the architects were heavily inspired by Montpellier’s tradition of outdoor living, thus the conception of the aptly named building.

A wonderful creative collaboration of a multidisciplinary team including Sou Fujimoto Architects, Nicolas Laisné Associés, Manal Rachdi Oxo Architects, engineer André Verdier, environmental engineering agency Franck Boutté Consultants, landscaping team Bassinet Turquin, designer Lumière Studio, and inspection firm Socotec and Casso et Associés.

This “Folie Architecturale of the 21^st century” was mainly the brainchild of an encounter between Japan and the Mediterranean. The cross-cultural endeavour embodies modern Montpellier. It is also an interchange between two generations of architects, with Japanese firm Sou Fujimoto at the state of its art and the young French generation represented by Manal Rachdi Oxo Architects and Nicolas Laisné Associés. Other firms were brought in to take part in this one-of-a-kind venture: Montpellier developers Promeo Patrimoine and Evolis Promotion, local stakeholders who will ensure this iconic project will represent success for the entire region.

Image and video courtesy of Nicolas Laisné Associés.