dda – Devaux & Devaux Architectes

L’esprit des Lieux (The Spirit of Place) *

* Space that a body occupies. All bodies occupy a place, fill a place, are in a place.

“The terms ​‘place’ and ​‘space’ are different words because place more expressly indicates situation, rather than size or form.” Descartes, Principles of Philosophy, 1644

Whether the goal is to create, transform or restore, the process begins with a detailed analysis of the place, its history, its evolution, in order to understand its raison d’être and evaluate its potential in the light of contemporary challenges.

Every project is conceived with respect to its natural and cultural setting, and in relation to the dialogue that will be established. Much is at stake, from a cultural point of view, as well as from an ecological and economic perspective. The question is how can a place be transformed so it becomes livable, so it comes to life, while ensuring what is created remains contemporary ?

Photos © Joan Bracco