Carpe Diem

Project
Summary

Tour Carpe Diem is an important step forward in the evolution of La Défense toward pedestrian-friendly urbanism and environmentally responsible architecture. The Carpe Diem tower significantly exceeds French Haute Qualité Environnementale regulations for environmentally responsible development and achieved LEED-CS Platinum certification; it is the first building in France to receive these dual certifications. A rooftop clubhouse provides conference facilities including meeting rooms and an 80-seat dining room, all wrapped by an accessible roof garden that frames dramatic views over Paris.

Key
Facts

• 39 Storey Building

• Façade surface 27,500m2

• Largest element is 5.2 wide by 5.9m high

• 4514 elements

• Standard element are 1.35 by 4m

Scope

Unitised and stick Curtain Walling

Fire Rated Stick curtain Walling

Opening  vents

Glazed Rainscreen cladding

Soffits, Louvres and Doors

Glazed Balustrades

Facing
challenges

Meeting the high requirements of quality level linked to such a prestigious project.

The shape of the Tower, with the diamond cut, was an interesting challenge with the design development.

Meeting stringent thermal performance & energetic efficiency specification, a low carbon rating

Managing
Risks

Integrating specific European glass within our frames was a potential high-risk activity, considering delivering the required quality and managing properly the leading time. Final assembly of glass within the frames was carried out in a specific warehouse near the glass manufacturer in Belgium, introducing intermediate logistical steps.

The transport of the units up to the installation site was challenging, because of the specific geometry of some elements, and the very tight construction site with no storage possibility. Elements were delivered just-in-time on site.

Saving
Time

Several installation teams working together were allowing for a maximal constant gap of 4 floors between concrete structure erection and facade installation over the construction time.

This was also permitted by the usage of light-weight MWEPs or lifting devices within the floors by avoiding using tower crane time.

Testimony

“Designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects and completed in May 2013, the tower significantly exceeds French regulations for environmentally responsible development. The building’s glazed curtain wall incorporates sunshades that respond to the solar orientation of each façade and innovative grilles that provide natural ventilation to reduce dependence on air conditioning. Additional sustainable design strategies include solar water heating, a heat recovery system and high-performance lighting.”

Hines, Integrated Real Estate Contractor