RATP Habitat Headquarters by Atelier du Pont: A New Vision for Sustainable Office Design in Paris

In 2021, RATP Habitat unveiled its new headquarters, a remarkable project located at 158 rue de Bagnolet in Paris’ 20th arrondissement, thoughtfully designed by the acclaimed architectural studio Atelier du Pont. This innovative office building stands as a model of sustainable architecture and workspace flexibility, crafted entirely with a glued-laminated timber structure and integrating lush rooftop gardens into its design.

A Wood-Framed Office Building Rooted in Sustainability

Atelier du Pont designed a three-story, wood-frame headquarters nestled within a densely built urban block. The building maximizes the limited site by fully occupying the plot at ground level while carving out a series of south-facing terraces. These cascading green spaces transform the rooftops into vibrant, habitable zones, merging architecture and nature seamlessly.

The building’s post-and-beam structure, made from glued-laminated timber, aligns precisely with the existing underground parking grid, minimizing the need for extensive structural alterations. This not only reduced construction impacts such as noise for neighboring residents but also exemplified eco-friendly construction practices.

Designing for Interaction, Flexibility, and Well-being

The design extends beyond architecture to encompass interior design, custom furniture, and wayfinding signage, all conceptualized by Atelier du Pont. The interiors emphasize sociability, adaptability, and a sense of domesticity, creating flexible workspaces that support a wide range of activities—from focused work to casual gatherings.

The layout disrupts the traditional office model, instead fostering collaboration and creativity. Key features include:

• An open-plan workspace with mobile partitions for easy reconfiguration.
• Informal zones for coffee breaks, relaxation, and impromptu meetings.
• Nomadic desks, shared offices, and enclosed spaces to cater to diverse working styles.
• Dedicated collaborative and creative areas promoting dynamic work modes.

Large, adaptable workspaces are organized around two central patios and an atrium, ensuring even distribution of natural light and enhancing natural ventilation throughout the building. Essential services such as restrooms, storage, and printing stations are consolidated along the building’s north side, maximizing flexibility elsewhere.

Urban Rooftop Gardens: A New Kind of Workplace Amenity

One of the headquarters' most striking features is its green rooftops, exclusively designed for the enjoyment of RATP Habitat employees. These sunlit terraces offer a unique retreat in the heart of Paris, providing spaces for outdoor work, relaxation, and light athletic activities like yoga or table tennis.

The rooftop spaces are punctuated with plant-filled beds, pots, and seating areas, fostering an inviting environment for social interaction and personal well-being. The topmost level houses a dedicated vegetable garden, supporting urban agriculture initiatives. Additionally, small greenhouses on the lower terraces provide sheltered spots for meetings, brainstorming sessions, or solo working.

Redefining the Contemporary Workplace

Atelier du Pont's approach to the RATP Habitat headquarters reflects a profound shift in how we envision work environments. The emphasis on flexibility, well-being, and environmental sustainability responds directly to the evolving needs of modern organizations. This headquarters is not just an office—it's a living, breathing space that adapts to its users and nurtures both community and creativity.

By championing sustainable design, wood construction, and the integration of urban nature, the RATP Habitat project stands as a blueprint for the future of office architecture in Paris and beyond.

All Photographs are works of Takuji Shimmura, Vincent Leroux