TEXT_This study by Agence Chavannes on behalf of the City of Saint-Quentin addresses the huge public space located to the south of the historic centre of the town – and yet the project is much more than a simple reorganisation of a city district.
On the one hand, the project seeks to improve a site abandoned as a result of industrial decline by creating new activities – particularly in the area of leisure. On the other hand, the project addresses the esplanade in front of the station and the multimodal hub whose appearance is essential to the image of the town.
The response of Agence Patrick Chavannes is to propose the renovation of the areas to the two sides of the axis established by the Canal de Saint-Quentin and the Somme. The intense soft landscaping of the left bank – which takes in the esplanade to the station - creates a link with the two enormous natural spaces beyond while establishing a sense of ecological continuity. This series of green spaces constitutes a perfect area for relaxation, which is particularly adapted to the needs of the citizens of today.
The right bank contains a much more urban response in the form of a restored riverfront facade. The partially pedestrianised Quai Gayant thus gains a new leisure-oriented character, becoming the home to café terraces, shops and cultural and leisure facilities - and also, thanks to its restored sense of attractiveness, apartments and offices.
reorganisation of the public spaces on the Quai Gayant , Saint Quentin, 2008
- PROGRAM_reorganisation of the public spaces on the Quai Gayant
- LOCATION_Saint-Quentin
- SURFACE AREA_150ha
- COST_€40,000,000
- CLIENT_ville de Saint-Quentin
- DESIGNER_Agence Patrick Chavannes
- ROLE_design of the public spaces
- PHASE_competition 2nd place
- COLLABORATORS_engineers : Iris Conseil / hydraulic engineers : Hydrogeotechnique / lighting : Agence ON