Lyon’s Gerland District Welcomes ‘Wellcome Harmony’: A New Vision for Urban Living – Breaking News!
Lyon, France – In a significant boost for urban renewal and sustainable living, BNP Paribas Immobilier Promotion and Vinci Immobilier have jointly announced the completion of Wellcome Harmony, the second phase of the ambitious Wellcome residential program in Lyon’s 7th arrondissement. This isn’t just another housing project; it’s a transformation of a former industrial wasteland into a vibrant “nature district,” and it’s happening now. For those following French real estate and urban development, this is a key moment.
From Wasteland to Wellness: The Wellcome Harmony Project
The €61 million (BNP Paribas Immobilier Promotion) and €1.1 billion (Vinci Immobilier) project, built on the three-hectare site previously occupied by Fagor-Brandt, delivers 538 housing units, a much-needed daycare center, 715 m² of retail space, and 260 m² dedicated to businesses. But the numbers only tell part of the story. Wellcome Harmony is designed around a core principle: integrating nature into the urban fabric. More than 200 trees have been planted, and a remarkable 35% of the site remains open green space. This commitment to biophilic design – connecting people with nature – is increasingly vital in modern city planning.
Image: A view of the completed Wellcome Harmony development, showcasing its integration of green spaces.
A Sustainable Blueprint for Future Development
What sets Wellcome Harmony apart is its ambitious environmental strategy. The developers haven’t just paid lip service to sustainability; they’ve embedded it into every aspect of the project. Biosourced materials have been prioritized, and the development is pursuing demanding environmental certifications – a clear signal of their commitment. Beyond the materials themselves, the design actively promotes a sustainable lifestyle. Shared bicycles, communal spaces, and landscaped pathways encourage residents to connect with each other and their surroundings, reducing reliance on private vehicles and fostering a sense of community. This approach aligns with the growing global trend towards 15-minute cities, where essential amenities are within a short walk or bike ride.
Gerland’s Ongoing Transformation: A Historical Perspective
The Gerland district has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent decades. Once a heavily industrialized area, it’s now a thriving hub for innovation, education, and residential living. The Wellcome project builds on this momentum, continuing the area’s evolution from a post-industrial landscape to a desirable urban environment. This type of urban renewal isn’t unique to Lyon; cities worldwide are grappling with the challenge of repurposing former industrial sites. Successful examples, like Gerland, demonstrate the power of thoughtful planning and a commitment to sustainability. The project’s success will likely serve as a case study for future developments across France and beyond.
Vinci Immobilier, with its 800 employees, brings significant expertise to the table, while BNP Paribas Immobilier Promotion’s contribution underscores the growing investment in sustainable urban projects. As the promoters themselves stated, “Wellcome illustrates our ambition for a more sober and desirable city.” This isn’t just about building homes; it’s about building a better future.
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