PONG
Calq + Bond Society

Calq and Bond Society completed the refurbishment and conversion of a high-rise office building in Paris into an innovative mixed-use programme, incorporating coliving, coworking, and PAB.

 

Reflecting the architectural style of the 1970s, the composition is clean and legible, with a systematic facade of prefabricated concrete panels enveloping the different volumes. The building consists of three stacked sections: a base that slightly projects from the street, a bar, and a tower, each separated by hollow-jointed storeys.

A sloping forecourt bridges the level difference between the city and the elevated ground floor, lifting the building from its prominent base and extending PONG into the surrounding neighbourhood.

 

The large glazed areas on the ground floor emphasise the lightness of the recessed volume, offering a view of the activity within without disrupting it.

Dating from 1974, the building’s envelope is composed of prefabricated concrete panels, giving it a strong identity.

The architectural approach aimed to closely preserve the original appearance while enhancing the prominence of the alveoli. The window frames have been redesigned to align with the original design, incorporating the latest thermal performance features. Over 800 window frames and meticulous design work were employed to restore the original alveoli.

Public and private areas within the building are clearly distinguished by their circulation flows



The entrance hall serves as a shared space for both the coliving and coworking areas, while other activities have separate entrances, each with distinct access conditions (badge, code, or open entry). In a nod to the material and colour effects of the 1970s, mirrors are incorporated into the circulation areas to enhance the flow of natural light.

The first three coworking levels are flexible spaces delivered as open-plan areas with optimised ceiling heights, ready for fit-out.

The floor plan allows the visible networks to be aesthetically arranged on the ceiling. The interplay of materials—concrete, metal, and glass—honours the original structure, preserving the memory of the existing building, while enhancing light and well-being for its occupants.

The G+4, a hollow joint between volumes, marks the intersection of the mixed-use spaces and defines the silhouette of PONG. The offices feature a spacious terrace, offering a variety of seating options for an alternative way of working outdoors.

The coliving flats are located in the upper part of the building (G+5 to G+13) and feature a welcoming rooftop.

The eight duplex units include 12 bedrooms, ranging in size from 16 to 32 sq. m., all arranged around a central living area. The architects' concept revolves around varying layers of privacy: shared spaces (lobbies, landings, sports hall, laundry, etc.), semi-private spaces (shared living areas), and private spaces (individual flats).

On G+13, the coliving tenants have access to a roof terrace offering a panoramic view of the 15th arrondissement and Paris.

The double-height loggias add depth and verticality, providing space for plants to thrive. The 'revolving' coliving floor plans strategically distribute these new outdoor spaces across the four corners of the building.

A project by Calq + Bond Society
Location Paris, FR
Year 2024
Surface 7950 sqm

Client Covea Immobilier
Photography: 
Florent Michel

a project powered by Itinerant Office

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