Buttes Chaumont

After having successfully worked together on previous projects, Immobel called upon Forest’s expertise and network to find temporary occupation for their 4,300 square metre building in the Rue de Crimée, in the Buttes-Chaumont district (19th arrondissement in Paris). 

Buttes Chaumont

By offering temporary use of the building – prior to getting the necessary building permits and starting the redevelopment works – Immobel aims to create added value for both the city and community. It is a win-win for multiple parties. Local organisations with limited budgets get access to workspace at affordable prices. Temporary occupation prevents a building from being squatted, which is highly appreciated and applauded by the local community. In addition, it enhances the developer’s asset prior to the start of the construction works.

We will always aim to promote and facilitate interactivity with the neighbourhood.

Buttes Chaumont Adrien ViaudAdrien Viaud, co-founder Forest Agency

The former administrative building in the Rue de Crimée currently houses a small events agency and various audio-visual companies. Due to the nature of their business – short-term projects against low budgets – audio-visual companies usually struggle to find affordable work or shooting venues, especially in Paris with its sky-high rental prices and limited real estate offer. Forest aims to close that gap, by offering access to buildings which would be unaffordable on the regular market. 

“We mainly focus on local organisations or companies in the cultural or creative sector and social economy,” explains Adrien Viaud, co-founder of Forest. “Where possible, and if the timing allows, we will reach out to local authorities and organisations to understand their needs. It is our aim to promote and facilitate interactivity with the neighbourhood.”

Access to premises remains a vital barrier for organisations to grow or simply become operational. We are pleased we can offer them a kick-start.

Buttes Chaumont Adrien ViaudAdrien Viaud, co-founder Forest Agency

In previous collaborations, Forest created temporary artist studios and facilitated exhibitions, but the sectors in which temporary users operate are highly diverse. “We have had physiotherapists, accountants, non-governmental organisations and start-ups in our buildings. It is extremely rewarding to see that some of them have grown into successful businesses. Access to premises remains a vital barrier for organisations to grow or simply become operational. We are pleased we can offer them a kick-start. We are particularly grateful that developers like Immobel decide to give their buildings a temporary use, in anticipation of renovation or a new construction.”