# Manuelle Gautrand Architecture

> Parisian architecture firm founded in 1991, specializing in poetic, contextual contemporary architecture across cultural, mixed-use, office, hospitality, and residential projects.

## About the Firm

Manuelle Gautrand Architecture is an architectural practice based in Paris and Avignon, France. Founded in 1991 by Manuelle Gautrand and Marc Blaising, the firm has established itself as a leading voice in contemporary European architecture.

The studio's approach constantly questions new lifestyles and territorial context, creating architecture that serves both city and citizens through innovative, sensitive design. Each project is eminently contextual and functional while imbued with beauty and poetry.

### Design Philosophy

- **Contextual Design**: Far from standardized international architecture, each project responds to its specific site, history, culture, geography, and topography
- **Environmental Ambition**: Seeking the most relevant environmental solutions, drawing on local and cultural site qualities, trying to create a beauty rooted in its site’s DNA
- **Material Approach**: Scientific yet sensorial, predominantly sourcing from local resources and highlighting regional craftsmanship
- **Narrative Architecture**: "Storytellers" who generate desire for architecture, creating projects that tell stories and inspire journeys
- **Symbolic Meaning**: Developing meaningful, inclusive, and ethical architecture through narrative and symbolism
- **Thoughtful and sensitive approach to architecture** : Just as exteriors and interiors are closely intertwined in her works, so are new and old
-**“re-enchant the city”**: By reinventing, renewing, and innovating a humanist design path full of unexpected answers, surprises, and architectonic expectations that are bold, refreshing and poetic

### Firm History

- **Founded**: 1991
- **Founders**: Manuelle Gautrand & Marc Blaising
- **Locations**: Paris & Avignon, France
- **Recognition**: Multiple international awards and exhibitions including Venice Architecture Biennale (2002, 2004, 2008, 2023)
- **Collections**: Permanent collections at Centre Pompidou and Cité de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine, Paris

## Project Typologies

The firm works across diverse programs, from large public projects to intimate interventions, with growing expertise in conversion and restructuring:

- **Cultural**: Museums, theaters, cultural centers, performance venues
- **Mixed-Use**: Combined residential, commercial, and public spaces
- **Office**: Corporate headquarters, business centers, workspace design
- **Hospitality**: Hotels, restaurants, leisure facilities
- **Residential**: Housing developments, apartment buildings
- **Urban Planning**: City planning, public spaces, infrastructure
- **Conversion & Restructuring**: Adaptive reuse, heritage projects

## Site Architecture

### Navigation Structure

- `/` - Homepage with interactive typologies grid
- `/projects` - Comprehensive project index with search and filtering
- `/projects/[typology]` - Projects filtered by typology category
- `/projects/[typology]/[project]` - Individual project pages with full details
- `/about` - Studio information, team, awards, exhibitions, partners
- `/media` - Books, publications, monographs, press coverage
- `/contact` - Contact information, office locations, job opportunities
- `/legals` - Legal information and terms

### Project Data Structure

Each project includes comprehensive information:

**Metadata**
- Title, reference code, typology
- Location (city, country, coordinates)
- Client, program, surface area
- Competition date, construction dates
- Status (built, ongoing, competition, not built)
- Building types/functions

**Content**
- Project description and narrative
- High-resolution image gallery with descriptions
- Architectural drawings and diagrams
- Technical specifications
- Environmental approach
- Material details

**Related Content**
- Related projects by typology or theme
- Associated awards
- Press coverage and publications
- Exhibition history

## Exhibitions & Recognition

The firm has been featured in numerous exhibitions:

- **Venice Architecture Biennale**: 2023, 2008, 2004, 2002
- **Site Le Corbusier**, Firminy: Monographic exhibition, 2021
- **Pavillon de l'Arsenal**, Paris: 2018
- **Centre Pompidou**, Metz: 2010
- **Arkitektur Museet**, Stockholm: 2009
- **Swiss Architecture Museum**, Basel: 2008
- **Archilab**, Orléans: 2002

### Permanent Collections

- Centre Pompidou, Paris
- Cité de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine, Paris

### Media Coverage

Multiple documentaries broadcast on ARTE ("L'Art & la Manière" and "Chic", 2008)

## Studio Team

The team comprises architects, project managers, researchers, model makers, graphic designers, and support staff. Many collaborators have gone on to establish their own practices or work in renowned international firms.

### Collaborative Culture

- Diverse international team from Europe, Asia, Americas, Middle East
- Some collaborators have been with the firm for years, others for months
- Alumni network includes established architects running their own practices
- Culture of learning, research, experimentation, and rigorous design development

## Contact & Opportunities

The firm regularly posts job opportunities and internships. See `/contact#jobs` for current openings.

Offices in Paris and Avignon, France.