I set off on a pilgrimage not so very long ago, inspired by the contemporary landscape design of Parc André Citröen – representing the work of Alain Provost and Gilles Clement.
Parc Andre Citroen Fountain and Orangery Photo © Alice Joyce
The park rose up in the southwest corner of Paris in the Javel neighborhood, a site appropriated as part of the city’s urban renewal efforts, after the closure of the Citröen car factory.
Away from the well-trod tourist paths, Parc André Citröen has won praise (and criticism, alike) for the forward-looking aspects of its design: A complex geometric layout full of surprising juxtapositions and horticultural interest.
Elements of cool postmodern style appear as architectural devices, defining the character of discrete spaces. At the same time, sequestered areas are given over to lush planting schemes and shaded allées, fostering a sense of intimacy. The parkland extends over 30 acres, and futuristic bent aside, its plan encourages visitors to linger amid open areas of lawn, a bamboo grove, and a rock garden.
Large-scale water features call to mind the aesthetic fountains and pools of classical landscapes, while inducing young and old to relax and refresh. Arranged on an axis perpendicular to the Seine, the totality of the park is oriented to echo the order of historic Parisian parks farther upriver.
Overview – www.worldarchitecture.org
The overall design concept puts into play an often startling sense of contrast, advancing from obviously man-made configurations to areas meant to reveal the spirit of untouched, natural places. At the heart of the park is a sprawling grassy expanse set off by a wall of clipped hedges and promenade evocative of formal French gardens.
Parc André Citroën .. Photo © Alice Joyce
Water elements lend particular distinction to a number of compartmentalized environments. Entering one such space, you see water flowing gently over an inclined wall, while directly across the way, its counterpart achieves drama with a decidedly vigorous deluge over a stepped surface.
Cascading plantings of fragrant herbs echo the waterfall’s architectural form.
Moving on, a series of small theme gardens emerges, revealing a richness of shrubs, specimen trees and perennials. Unusual plant material is noteworthy in creating atmospheric garden spaces, such as the Jardin Blanc & Jardin Noir.
Parc André Citroën Interior Play of Shadow Photo © Alice Joyce
A tunnel passage signals the transition to another color-themed space, accented with blue salvias, fragrant mints, California lilacs, a wisteria-draped arbor, and a pergola cloaked in variegated porcelainberry vine melded with clematis. At another juncture, towering mirrored-glass buildings are partnered with a long reflecting canal. The crisp outlines of the adjacent hedges restate the angular facades.
Suggesting sanctuary, an array of small-scale buildings line up along a walkway. A bold rectangular opening entices me to enter one structure, where I find an interior that capitalizes on a play of light and shadow created by a slat roof: The floor wears a carpet of Scotch moss.
When in Paris .. Parc André Citröen is located in the 15th arrondisement: Metro stop Balard or Javel.
Parc Citroën (ALICE JOYCE photo)
Parc Citroen Walkway (Photo: it_outsider)
Dear Alice, This is a fascinating and detailed account of a garden about which, like so many others about which you write, was unknown to me before now. Your description has excited me to see this very new and very modern garden which clearly has much of interest both in terms of planting and hard landscaping. I find it reassuring when something so positive emerges from what could be seen as the wreck of industry. It is some time since I was last in Paris; this is a very good reason to return.
This one is different, especially for Paris. I was in Paris last May, but I’m heading to Antibes this year. I will have to catch this garden on a future trip to my favorite international city!
Love love love that last planting of the irregularly clipped boxwoods beneath the trees. It’s a really practical way to give you access to the core of a large bed, but the way it’s done is idea-theft-worthy.
I have never visited Paris, but would very much like to one day. If I ever get there I will visit this park as for all it’s clean modern design, it seems very peaceful.
This looks like a very cool and special park, i’ll put in my “must visit list”. Nice post to read, thanks!
Alice, this is a really interesting garden…so modern in unique. I’ve not been to Paris yet…maybe one day.
Edith,
Delighted that I could share an unknown destination with you.
Cameron,
I’ll look forward to what you have to say about Antibes – I’ve never been there!
James,
Interesting that you pick up on a practical aspect of this eye-catchingly unique design element. Wonder if you will find a place to replicate it;-)
Heidi,
The grounds are so vast that there are quiet places throughout, along with public areas where people mingle, have fun and make some noise.
Joost,
If you manage a visit, do share it with me. I love to hear others’ reactions to the design and fantastic plant palette.
Kimberly,
The idea of modern spaces being created on such a grand scale really intrigues me: Happy to introduce you to this Parisian parkland!