Near The Tree Apartment Building – PETITDIDIERPRIOUX Architects

Situated at the gateway to the Beaujolais vineyards, the Near The Tree Apartment Building by PETITDIDIERPRIOUX Architects transforms a strategic city entrance into an elegant and contextual architectural statement. Designed with a deep sensitivity to its natural surroundings, the project emphasizes landscape preservation while introducing a distinctive urban residential landmark.

A Gateway Between City and Vineyards

The building’s location marks one of Villefranche-sur-Saône’s key thresholds, where urban density meets the rolling greenery of the Beaujolais wine region. This transitional site guided the architectural approach—prioritizing the integration of existing trees and natural landscape features into the design.

The architects worked with the existing corolla of mature trees, shaping the building’s pentagonal footprint to fit harmoniously within its green context. This organic dialogue between architecture and nature became the defining identity of the project.

Design Concept and Spatial Quality

The pentagonal form is more than a visual signature—it optimizes apartment orientation, daylight access, and cross-ventilation. Each residence is designed with generous living areas that open onto expansive outdoor spaces, such as large terraces and balconies, encouraging year-round indoor-outdoor living.

The housing typologies are varied, accommodating a mix of family sizes while ensuring privacy, natural light, and unobstructed views toward the surrounding green landscape.

Materiality and Architectural Expression

Material choices were made with durability and timelessness in mind. The concrete façade, stained in warm tones, exudes a subtle faded red hue that resonates with the earthy palette of the Beaujolais region. This warm tint creates a striking contrast with the lush greenery, reinforcing the building’s connection to its landscape.

Architectural simplicity and clean lines ensure the design will remain visually relevant over decades, avoiding stylistic trends in favor of enduring elegance.

Sustainable and Contextual Approach

Beyond aesthetics, the project reflects an environmentally responsible philosophy. By preserving mature trees and enhancing the existing landscape, the architects minimized ecological disruption. This approach not only sustains local biodiversity but also provides residents with a naturally shaded, temperate microclimate.

Key Project Information

• Architects: PETITDIDIERPRIOUX Architects
• Location: Villefranche-sur-Saône, France
• Year Completed: 2023
• Gross Floor Area: 1,250 m²
• Structural Engineers: RBS
• Environmental Consultants: GC2E
• Photographer: Sergio Grazia
• Manufacturers: Aujogue, Decraux, Doitrand, Ducruet, Espaces Verts du Mont d'Or, Fontaine, Gonnet Perrut, Guelpa, LIMOGE REVILLON, Lovisolo, Otis, Plasse, Remuet TP, Rotival, Soprema, Vincent

The Near The Tree Apartment Building is a thoughtful blend of contemporary architecture, environmental stewardship, and contextual sensitivity. It stands as a model for urban housing projects that respect and integrate the natural landscape while offering high-quality living spaces. By prioritizing orientation, typology, and material durability, PETITDIDIERPRIOUX Architects have created a development that enhances both the city’s entrance and its residents’ quality of life.

All photographs are works of Sergio Grazia