Two linked Volumes Shape Achères Municipal Technical Center
Martinoli Pasini Architectes Associés and Nome Studio complete the Achères Municipal Technical Center and offices in Achères, France. The civic program is organized into two interconnected volumes that accommodate administrative and technical functions, including offices, municipal archives, workshops, and municipal garages. This volumetric approach allows each function to operate independently while ensuring a cohesive working environment.
The site lies within the Petite Arche joint development zone, where design considerations include the town entrance, contextual integration, and alignment with natural elements. The building’s form signals its position in an urbanized area and maintains visual dialogue with the surrounding landscape, including the protected Saint-Germain-En-Laye forest. A vegetated threshold along the northern edge reinforces landscape continuity, while the southern boundary engages with the urban character of the area. Circulation between functions is managed through a covered alley connecting workshops and storage spaces. This passage not only organizes flows but also provides sheltered functional space and encourages interaction among staff.
all images by Cyrille Weiner
Modular Timber-Concrete Structure forms the Center’s frame
The collaborative project between studio Martinoli Pasini Architectes Associés and practice Nome Studio was realized under challenging conditions, including material market restrictions during the 2020–2021 pandemic and geopolitical disruptions in 2022. Despite these constraints, the project benefited from continuous collaboration between the client and the design team, ensuring technical and functional decisions were carefully coordinated with end users. Workshop managers and municipal technical staff participated in refining the design to meet specific operational needs.
Structurally, the center employs a mixed system of concrete walls, glued laminated timber posts and beams, and cross-laminated timber floors. The modular and prefabricated components enable efficient assembly, disassembly, and cost-effective construction. A standardized structural grid supports the facade, which is clad in corrugated stainless steel sheets. The rhythm of the cladding varies across levels, emphasizing the distinction between volumes while maintaining material consistency.
the Achères Municipal Technical Center and offices stand in Achères, France
the design maintains dialogue with the nearby Saint-Germain-en-Laye forest
the project organizes administrative and technical departments within two interconnected volumes
the form establishes a visual relationship with the surrounding urban fabric
the dual-volume configuration enables independent operation while maintaining functional continuity
the site is located within the Petite Arche joint development zone
corrugated stainless steel cladding articulates the volumes through varied rhythmic patterns
the structure combines concrete walls with glued laminated timber posts and beams
a vegetated threshold along the northern edge reinforces landscape continuity
a modular structural grid supports prefabricated assembly
a covered alley organizes circulation between workshops and storage areas
the passage provides sheltered space for daily operational activities
offices, municipal archives, workshops, and garages are accommodated within a unified civic complex
project info:
name: Municipal technical center and offices
architects: Martinoli Pasini Architectes Associés | @martinoli_pasini, Nome Studio | @nome_studio
location: Achères, Île-de-France, France
photographer: Cyrille Weiner | @cyrilleweiner
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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom
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