Zellige

Zellige is a social housing complex in Nantes, France, designed by Tectône and Tact Architectes. The project, completed in 2020, consists of 100 apartments, including 15 co-housing units, arranged in three interlocking volumes of four, six, and twelve floors. The complex is part of a larger urban renewal initiative on the île de Nantes, a former industrial area. The project stands out for its collaborative approach, involving future residents in the design process through workshops and discussions. This participatory method resulted in a variety of communal spaces, including shared terraces, a workshop, a laundry, a vegetable garden, and even a chicken coop. These shared areas are located on top of the shorter volumes or in a central courtyard. Architecturally, Zellige features a uniform pale grey brick facade, which unifies the three volumes. A striking external spiral staircase with wooden balustrades adds visual interest and provides residents with views of the complex. The apartments are designed with a simple, flexible layout, prioritizing living spaces and bedrooms along the facades with large balconies extending the interiors outward. The project also incorporates innovative construction techniques, including anti-seismic brick technology developed in collaboration with supplier Blockstar, addressing Nantes' seismic activity concerns. Zellige has gained recognition in the architectural community, being shortlisted for the 2020 Dezeen Awards and winning the public vote in its category.