The Porte Maillot project in Paris has not only improved traffic flow but also created aesthetic and ecological value. Through the reconfiguration of this historic plaza, the Axe Majeur has been restored, and the Bois de Boulogne has been visually and physically better integrated into the city. The former large traffic roundabout has been transformed into a redesigned central area, aligned with Avenue de la Grande Armée in Paris and Avenue du Général de Gaulle in Neuilly-sur-Seine. A significant feature of this project is the use of innovative, sustainable, and high-quality materials, contributing to the aesthetics and functionality of the new public space.
Large Format Tiles
The paving for the project features large format tiles that are environmentally friendly and visually appealing. These tiles are produced CO2-neutral and hold a Cradle to Cradle Gold certification and an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), emphasizing their sustainability and minimal ecological footprint.
The paving pattern is designed using three sizes, with a length of 96 cm and three different widths: 48 cm, 32 cm, and 16 cm. The thickness of 20 cm ensures sufficient strength for the intended load. The base layer consists of 50% recycled material, supporting the circular economy.
The top layer is composed of premium beige-yellow natural stone aggregates and includes a hydrophobic component, ensuring water-repellent properties and a long lifespan. The top underwent a finerro finish (polished and blasted), creating a smooth, slightly rough surface that highlights the natural stone aggregates. This finish also provides adequate slip resistance, enhancing safety.
Street Tiles
In addition to the large format tiles, street tiles measuring 24 x 16 cm and 35 x 17.5 cm with a thickness of 8 cm have been used. These tiles match the color and finish of the large tiles, ensuring a harmonious appearance. They offer flexibility in pavement design while seamlessly blending with the larger tiles.
Tactile and Guiding Tiles
To ensure an inclusive and accessible public space, tactile and guiding tiles have been integrated, providing safe and intuitive navigation for visually impaired individuals. These tiles are designed to match the large format tiles in thickness and dimensions, guaranteeing uniformity and seamless transitions.
Some tiles feature contrasting anthracite colors, while others share the same color and composition as the standard large format tiles. Their surfaces are finished with a ferro treatment (blasted), creating a structured surface with enhanced grip and tactile recognition.
Benches
To further beautify and enrich the public space, benches have been installed that are both functional and aesthetically complementary to the paving. The sides of the benches feature the same finerro finish as the tiles, while the top is polished for enhanced seating comfort and easier maintenance.
For additional safety and durability, the benches are equipped with stainless steel anti-skate features. Additionally, they have a small recess underneath. Some benches are also designed as anti-ram barriers, preventing vehicles from entering certain zones.
The same benches have been installed near adjacent tram stops to maintain a sense of uniformity and cohesion within the public infrastructure.
The redevelopment project at Porte Maillot in Paris is a prime example of how urban infrastructure can be renewed with a focus on sustainability, accessibility, and aesthetics. Thanks to the use of CO2-neutral large format tiles, recycled materials, and smart finishes, the project contributes to a more sustainable city with a contemporary look. The combination of innovative paving, inclusive guidance elements, and ergonomic benches makes Porte Maillot not only more functional but also more pleasant for residents and visitors. This project demonstrates that modern urban renewal and environmentally conscious material use can go hand in hand.
Porte Maillot
Location: Paris, France
Project Team:
Empreinte, paysagiste Mandataire
IGREC Ingénierie, BET VRD Sathy, Architecte Urbaniste NEO ECO, Ingénierie du recyclage Biodiversita, Ecologue 8’’18, Eclairagiste Transitec, Ingénierie de la mobilité
Products: Urbastyle
Photography: Urbastyle
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