BERLIN · the tour bois le prêtre exhibition shows the fascinating metamorphosis of a 1960s parisian apartment block slated for demolition even though it was still fully inhabited.

instead, the building underwent a major renovation by architects Frédéric Druot and Lacaton & Vassal during which the tenants were able to remain in their homes. 

apartments were enlarged and improved with winter gardens and balconies, while rents remained unchanged and energy costs were reduced.

the transformation of the tour bois le prêtre was more than an architectural project; it is a model for architects, urban planners, preservationists, developers and politicians for tackling one of today’s greatest engineering challenges: the energetic and social rehabilitation of the mass housing units of the 1960s and 1970s all across europe.

tour bois le prêtre was curated by Ilka & Andreas Ruby together with something fantastic for the DAM in Frankfurt.

CONTRIBUTED BY MIMI ATOR