Armagnac - Bordeaux
FRANCE
1
France's tallest wooden parking facility (hybrid wood-concrete)
496
Parking spaces
99
Charging stations
A modern urban parking solution in Bordeaux
The Armagnac Gare Saint-Jean is a key public parking facility situated in the heart of Bordeaux’s Saint-Jean district. This structure is an integral part of the ambitious Euratlantique urban development, aiming to address the city's need for parking while also supporting sustainable mobility and innovative urban planning.
Strategic location and accessibility
As the sole public parking facility in an area with limited on-street parking, this car park holds a strategic position near the Saint-Jean station. It serves a diverse group of users, including residents, professionals, railway passengers, and visitors, by providing seamless connections between car, train, and public transport. With tram lines C and D just a 10-minute walk away, individuals can easily access popular destinations like the Cité du Vin, the Garonne riverfront, and the historic Saint-Michel district.
Innovative design and construction
Designed by Cosa Colboc Sachet Architecture, the facility features a modern aesthetic. While its exterior appears conventional, the interior reveals a notable hybrid wood-concrete structure, distinguishing it as France’s tallest wooden parking facility and one of the first of its kind in Europe. This design not only fulfills functional requirements but also contributes to the urban environment by reducing its ecological impact. The adaptable structure, which includes a reinforced floor built to exceed standard parking requirements, allows for potential future conversion into office spaces, ensuring long-term versatility.
Focus on sustainability and environment
Sustainability is a core principle of this project. The facility incorporates eco-friendly materials and energy-saving features to minimize its carbon footprint. Key environmental considerations include its wood-concrete structure, the use of chemical-free, water-based paints on floors, a comprehensive waste sorting system, and natural ventilation. Energy-efficient LED lighting with motion detectors ensures that only occupied areas are illuminated, which significantly lowers energy consumption.
Furthermore, the car park supports sustainable urban mobility by offering 99 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, making up 20% of its total capacity. Three of these spaces are specifically designated for users with disabilities. This robust EV charging infrastructure encourages the adoption of electric vehicles, contributing to reduced emissions and a greener urban future.
Enhanced accessibility, safety, and user experience
The car park was designed with accessibility in mind, featuring clear pedestrian routes and crossings for safe navigation. It includes designated disabled parking spaces and two elevators with accessible controls, including Braille. A comprehensive security system is in place, with 64 CCTV cameras, 24/7 intercom assistance at all key points, and on-site staff during opening hours. Additional safety measures, such as metal shutters at night and advanced fire monitoring systems, are implemented to protect both vehicles and pedestrians.
Modern technological solutions enhance the user experience, including a license plate recognition system for quick entry and multiple payment options (bank cards, mobile payments, and the Pcard+ system for online reservations and discounts). The layout, with wide ramps and spacious parking stalls, is designed for efficient vehicle circulation. Regular maintenance includes a dedicated 7-hour weekly cleaning session using eco-friendly electric scrubbers to maintain a clean environment.