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Combining
innovative architecture, compelling style and a bold approach to
design, the C42 - C for Citroën, 42 for the building number - embodies
both the rich history and contemporary vision of the Marque.
Incorporating a series of displays that are open to the public, this
newest landmark on Paris' world famous avenue is located on a site that
this year celebrates its 80th year in the hands of Citroën.
The C42 project is the work of one of France's leading
architects, Manuelle Gautrand. She was awarded
the prestigious contract in 2002 after her designs won unanimous
support in an international competition.
The
bold, prominent design of the C42 echoes the spirit of creativity and
innovation that has always been such an integral part of Citroën's
philosophy, while further reflecting the style renaissance that the
brand has undergone over the past few years.
Standing
30m high, the striking glass latticework exterior is dominated by
soaring chevrons that assert the building's Citroën identity. The
complicated geometric glass and steel facade took five months to
assemble and weighs an incredible 86 tonnes.
Visibility
and light are both dominant themes of the C42's design. During the day,
the glass-fronted face allows sunlight to pour into the showroom,
enhancing the sense of space and highlighting the building's reflective
surfaces. By night the C42 is illuminated in a play of light in the
recognisable Citroën shades of white and red.
Providing
the central focus to the building's interior are eight rotating
turntables topped by mirrors, each featuring a different Citroën model,
that rise up vertically through the building to create a spectacular
column of cars.
A panoramic elevator carries visitors
from the atrium to the top floor where they can enjoy superb views of
some of Paris' most recognised landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the
Place de la Concorde. As visitors walk down from the top floor they can
get closer to each of the exhibits, which will change in a series of
planned, seasonal exhibitions, and use the touch-screen displays to
learn more about them.
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