De la Société Métallurgique de Normandie à Effiscience. La transformation d'un site industriel

Abstract

Stéphane Valognes From the steel-based economy in Normandy to Effiscience The transition of an industrial site Starting in 1993-94, the newly formed agglomeration around Caen had to deal with end of the local steel industry. Lacking solid industrial projects, decision-makers centred their approach on architectural competency. They selected Dominique Perrault, who designed the Bibliothèque de France (French National Library). Becoming a local communications vector, Perrault designed the new site, christened Normandial. Philips has recently set up operations nearby, which thereafter seems to justify Caen's risky strategy.