Les Espaces d’Abraxas is a high-density housing complex in Noisy-le-Grand, approximately 12 km from Paris.The building designed by architect Ricardo Bofill and his architecture practice Ricardo Bofill Taller de Arquitectura (RBTA) in 1978 on behalf of the French government,during a period of increased urbanisation across France after World War II.
This rapid urbanisation lead to overcrowding and insufficient housing in the French capital, Paris.To offset this, the French government .implemented a project to create five 'New Towns' on the outskirts of Paris. Architect Ricardo Bofill's projects, including Les Espaces d Abraxas, are rooted in his left wing ideals.
The large complex of 591 apartments was designed in 1978 and completed in 1982.It rapidly acquired iconic status, amplified by its use as background sets in movies and music clips. Les Espaces d abraxas consists of three buildings: Le Palacio (the palace) is the largest, followed by Le Theatre (the theater) to its west, and the smaller L Arc (the arch) between the other two. Le Palacio has 441 housing units, Le Theatre has 130, and L Arc has 20.
The buildings post-modern design utilises classical motifs and new building technologies to achieve a luxury aesthetic previously reserved for upper classes. Despite receiving criticism, the building was an early success for Ricardo Bofill, and brought him international success and praise.
- Architect: Ricardo Bofill
- Photos: Dirk Verwoerd
- Words: Qianqian
