Chambers architects is currently working on an exceptional project in Paris for the headquarters of a world leader in social networking. The group's new work place strategy, already deployed in London, Dublin and San Francisco, emphasizes local roots in each case. But rather than play on a Parisian imagery that has been seen and reviewed, Chambers architects preferred to deliver a timeless interpretation of a characteristic inseparable from the very identity of the French capital: sociability... and the places that have embodied it: ^18th-century literary circles or ^19th-century brasseries.

So it's not the codes of tech that have inspired the interior design, but a revisited ancient know-how, committed to creating a combination of differentiated ambiences, conducive to all forms of social relationship: collaboration, representation, discussion, catering, reception...

These ambiances are absolutely assertive in their colors, the "temperature" of the materials used (wood, stone, terrazzo), and even their acoustics. Yes, some spaces readily accept the cheerful sounds of a moment of relaxation, a lively discussion or a private event. While others turn off all resonance to guarantee privacy, confidentiality or reflection.

This contrasting diversity occupies the three storeys of a U-shaped building that frames a vast inner courtyard and is largely illuminated by a glazed curtain wall. It is organized on each level according to a similar pattern of three concentric rings, as legible in plan as it is perceptible on site. Closest to the courtyard, a cool, dynamic atmosphere with interior views. In the center, visitor access and collaboration. On the outside of the plateau, on the street side, the cosy concentration of the open space (yes, the open space is the place of concentration by definition).

One of the three floors is partially outside this order. The reception of visitors, whether major entrepreneurs or politicians, is so decisive for the occupant of the premises that he dedicates an entire floor to them. More precisely, he devotes it to meetings and exchanges, with a shared coworking lounge, a mini auditorium, a communal cafeteria and several boardroom-style meeting rooms. And a huge terrace overlooking the courtyard, where you can network again and again.