The project
The context
Located within the “Cœur de Quartier” development in Nanterre, UPSIDE represents an ambitious 20,000 m² program of offices and retail spaces. This strategic project connects the Terrasses district to the Cité des Provinces Françaises, while opening onto the university. Developed by EPADESA and Bouygues Immobilier, it forms part of the second phase of a mixed-use complex totaling 77,000 m².
The layouts
The building’s design responds to specific constraints linked to its highly linear plot of 130m by 30m. To avoid the “bar effect,” the volume was divided into two buildings separated by a central void housing the main lobby. The façades are articulated by deep recesses, creating four gable ends whose varying heights follow the natural slope of the site.
Interior Architecture
The interior layout prioritizes flexibility and user comfort. The office spaces are designed to optimize natural light and views, while the ground floor hosts retail spaces that contribute to urban activity.
Custom-made spiral staircase
Signature
In the Upside project in Nanterre, this spiral staircase perfectly embodies our vision of architectural design where functionality and aesthetics merge as one. Designed by Aliénor Bechu for Volume ABC, it integrates seamlessly into this positive-energy office environment.
Design
Its helical structure, both light and sculptural, creates a striking focal point within the space. The clean lines of its design express a pursuit of minimalist elegance, while its organic form naturally invites vertical circulation.
Materiality
The choice of noble materials and the precision of their execution reflect our commitment to artisanal excellence. Every detail has been carefully considered to create a perfect balance between structural strength and visual lightness.
Integration
More than a simple circulation element, this staircase becomes a true architectural work that contributes to the spatial narrative of the place. It perfectly illustrates our approach to interior design, where every element helps create a unique and coherent experience.

Certifications and labels
Environmental excellence.
The project combines several prestigious certifications: HQE Exceptional level, BREEAM Very Good, BEPOS Effinergie 2013, and meets the “Green Office” standards. This comprehensive environmental approach makes it a model of contemporary sustainable architecture.
The design wall
Concept
For the Upside project in Nanterre, Volume ABC envisions a wall that becomes a true architectural signature. This creation by Aliénor Bechu transforms a functional surface into a design element that contributes to the building’s eco-responsible identity.
Design
The wall, with its contemporary and refined lines, integrates perfectly into this innovative architectural ensemble. Its thoughtful design contributes to the building’s overall energy performance while creating a distinctive aesthetic.
Innovation
This creation is part of the project’s environmental ambition, certified BREEAM, Green Office, BEPOS, Certivea, HQE and BiodiverCity. The wall thus becomes an element that combines design and sustainable development.
Harmony
The installation naturally engages in dialogue with the building’s architecture, helping to create a modern and eco-responsible working atmosphere. It perfectly illustrates the ability to combine aesthetics with environmental performance.
Details
The original luminous wall of the Upside building in Paris embodies a harmonious fusion of contemporary aesthetics and environmental commitment. Specifically designed for a 20,000 m² positive-energy office building, this wall does more than illuminate the space. It helps create a dynamic and inspiring atmosphere within the workplace. The technology behind this luminous wall demonstrates a meticulous attention to energy efficiency and its seamless integration into the overall spatial design. This luminous wall reflects Aliénor’s vision of creating spaces that combine beauty, functionality, and environmental responsibility, marking an important milestone in the design of modern and eco-responsible workspaces.

Environmental innovation
Exemplary energy performance.
The project targets the BEPOS (Positive Energy Building) objective with a 1,400 m² photovoltaic power plant on the roof and an “energy loop” system combining geothermal energy, cogeneration, and heat pumps. The façade treatment employs an exo/endothermic polychromy based on orientation to optimize energy gains.
Bioclimatic design
Comfort and durability
The building’s layout and morphology have been designed to maximize visual and thermal comfort while minimizing energy consumption. The solar protections and glazed surfaces are dimensioned based on precise heliodon studies, enabling optimal natural ventilation.
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