The Arches by Collectif Parenthèse: A Temporary Playground Reimagining Public Space in Montpellier

Nestled in the vibrant Arceaux district of Montpellier, The Arches by Collectif Parenthèse is a bold, child-centric urban intervention that reimagines how public space can support community, education, and play. Known for its market culture, quaint cafes, schools, and rich architectural heritage, the Arceaux neighborhood exemplifies suburban quality of life. However, at its core lies a major urban challenge—an oversized open-air parking lot that disrupts soft mobility and blurs the boundaries between pedestrian and motorized zones.

To address this disconnect, the Base landscape agency initiated a broader renovation strategy under the theme “the city at child height”, aiming to seamlessly link the historic center with the Arceaux district through design interventions that prioritize children’s experiences.

As a pilot activation within this urban vision, Collectif Parenthèse designed The Arches—a temporary, multifunctional installation transforming underused asphalt into a lively and inclusive environment. Positioned on the forecourt of the Chaptal and Jeanne d’Arc schools, the installation invites children, families, and residents to engage with the space in playful and educational ways.

This innovative urban setup includes:

• An outdoor classroom with bleachers and communal tables
• Play installations such as swings and a motor skills obstacle course
• Interactive elements like a dancing mirror, misting station, and mini pétanque court
• Large picnic tables for shared community use

Designed with circular economy principles, all modules are modular, demountable, and reusable—ensuring that the components can be stored, repurposed for festivals, outdoor events, or redistributed to schoolyards across the city. This sustainable design ethos aligns with the collective’s broader mission to create architecture that is both responsive and regenerative.

Artistic contributions further enrich the project. A vibrant ground mural by FZR Sethi complements the installation, while the graphic identity—developed by collective Ne Rougissez Pas in collaboration with local students—adds a layer of community-led storytelling.

The Arches stands not only as a public space transformation but also as a model of participatory urbanism, placing children and education at the heart of city-making. It exemplifies how temporary architecture can test ideas, foster dialogue, and serve as a catalyst for long-term urban change.

All Photographs are works of TimeBox Prod