West 8, together with Landscape Architect Sabine Haristoy, have redesigned the historic plaza and lush garden of Place Gambetta. The renovated square provides the public with a newly rejuvenated, vibrant and green environment in the heart of Bordeaux. The project is a synthesis of quality green space, urban infrastructure, heritage and craftsmanship.

Previously overwhelmed with heavy traffic flow, the project has improved the accessibility of the square by relocating vehicles and providing a generous space for bikes and pedestrians. Framing the square with a dappled canopy, the new design preserves existing centenary trees and introduces a variety of over fifty new trees. Limestone is the dominant material of the project, complementing the 18th-century façades of the surrounding buildings. A new fountain, dedicated to the medieval French queen Eleonore D’Aquitaine, creates a natural meeting point within the central English Garden.

 

West 8 began working on Place Gambetta after winning the design competition in 2016. After two years of construction, the park was opened in early 2021.

Photography: © Karolina Samborska; © Jean-Maurice Chacun

Client

City of Bordeaux

Partners

Sabine Haristoy, Cetab