PROJECT

Modernisation du stade Roland Garros

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

Neveux Rouyer

PROJECT ARCHITECT

Chaix et morel

CLAY PAVER

SeptimA Mahogany

Photos: © Eli Lammertyn

Roland Garros, the iconic tennis complex in Paris, has undergone a remarkable modernization to maintain its historic charm while meeting the demands of the future. An important part of this project is the redesign of the Place des Mousquetaires, where our clay pavers play a central role.

The modernization project aims to create a high-quality environment for players, spectators, professionals, enthusiasts and amateurs. This reinforces Roland Garros' status as a major event and an unmissable rendezvous for tennis fans. The architects focused on three main challenges, being the design of an infrastructure that meets current & future needs, the creation of functional and comfortable spaces for the public, and the strengthening of the green presence to create a feeling of a “walk in 'green' for visitors.

The aim of the modernization of the Place des Mousquetaires was to restore the federal pavilion to its original state. One hectare of green space has been created where the clay pavers were used for the paved paths, just in front of the famous Philippe Chatrier court. This place offers not only a visually appealing landscape but also functional paths that lead visitors through the green terrain. The large 'Pelouse des Mousquetaires' is now a landscaped green area that invites both players and spectators to enjoy a green oasis in the middle of the city.

The 'Septima' in mahogany color was chosen for the redesign of the Place des Mousquetaires. These pavers harmonize beautifully with the orange-brown of the tennis courts on the complex. The clay pavers not only provide an aesthetically attractive environment, but also a durable and robust surface that can withstand intensive use. The Septima is a tumbled unsanded clay paver in the ECO-7-size waal format that is perfect for a public square like this. A herringbone pattern was chosen, which ensures a lively result. The place where these pavers are located is further enriched by statues of legendary tennis players such as René Lacoste, Jacques Brugnon, Jean Borotra and Henri Cochet, 'the Four Musketeers of French tennis' after Vito Tongiani, which together form a tribute to the rich history of the tournament.

Thanks to its modernization, the complex remains a bubble of lightness and nature in the heart of Paris, a magical place carefully preserved for future generations.