Office National des Forêts Blends Urban and Natural Settings

Thoughtful architecture has the power to reflect and reinforce the natural or urban environment of which it exists. Design, materials, and spatial planning come together to create buildings that harmonize with the landscape rather than dominate it. Whether seen in small projects such as Fallingwater or an extension to a public structure such as the Oslo Opera House, there will always be opportunity for architectural integration. In the case of the Office National des Forêts, designed by Atelier Delalande Tabourin, in Versailles, the expansion takes this concept to new heights. Positioned near a railway and bordering forest, the building embraces its setting, seamlessly connecting the built and natural worlds.

A modern wooden structure with large glass doors and windows, set on a light concrete base, surrounded by trees and a wire fence.

The structure reflects the activities of the forestry office, with its form and materials carefully chosen to blend into the forest context. The space invites both employees and passersby to engage with the building in an immersive way, with each element designed to highlight the craftsmanship involved in forest management.

A person walks two dogs down a sloped path near a two-story house surrounded by trees and a fence, with cloudy skies above.

A modern building with a wooden facade in front of a house with a gray roof and white shutters.

The roof and facade are constructed from locally sourced wood, specifically chestnut, which has been carefully processed to fit the project’s needs. The wood comes directly from the Versailles forest, and its preparation involved a meticulous timeline to accommodate the drying period required for the material.

Modern architecture with wooden and glass elements, featuring large windows and a minimalist design.

Modern wooden building with large glass windows surrounded by trees. A small tree stands in front of the structure, and a tall evergreen is visible behind it.

Inside, the pavilion is organized clearly, with spaces defined by solid wood blocks, guiding movement through darkened corridors that contrast with the natural light flooding the office areas. Custom-designed furniture and signage, made from wood, further connect the space to the forest environment, referencing the markings traditionally used by foresters.

Minimalist beige interior with large glass panels and wooden doors, illuminated by natural light from a window. Ceilings feature circular recessed details.

The pavilion’s recessed position, combined with an extended wooden canopy, helps protect the interior from summer heat, while bio-sourced insulation and natural ventilation eliminate the need for artificial cooling. In the winter, a biomass heating system ensures energy-efficient thermal comfort.

Minimalist room with light wood paneling, a curved wall, built-in cabinets, and an open door leading to another space. Ceiling features a circular light fixture.

A room with light wooden walls and ceiling, featuring a small square window in the center. A round ceiling light provides illumination.

Two houses near railway tracks, surrounded by trees. One house is white and modern, the other is older with a pitched roof. Overgrown vegetation is visible along the railway embankment.

For more information on Atelier Delalande Tabourin, visit atelierdelalandetabourin.com.

Photography by Maxime Delvaux.

Leo Lei translates his passion for minimalism into his daily-updated blog Leibal. In addition, you can find uniquely designed minimalist objects and furniture at the Leibal Store.