Hardel Le Bihan Architectes
Paris, France
Mathurin Hardel and Cyrille Le Bihan founded Hardel Le Bihan Architectes in 2006. The practice’s work is based on a rational and sensitive design process, with a particular interest in how the projects will be used. Its references include numerous headquarters of international companies; the Ministries of Education and Sports’ offices in Greater Paris; the Albizzia Tower in Lyon; Athletes and Media reversible housing Villages for Paris 2024 Olympics as well as mixed-use buildings, cultural, educational and healthcare facilities, hotels and housing. In Africa, Hardel Le Bihan is completing social housing for 10.000 students at the University of Dakar as well as designing Sèmè City University Campus in Benin. The team numbers 50 architects and 15 site architects & engineers. It has designed and built 40 projects, with as many currently on site or at study phase. As a founding member of Nouvelle AOM studio (Franklin Azzi, ChartierDalix, Hardel Le Bihan) specialized in high-rise renovations, the practice works at the Montparnasse Tower and has completed Ariane Tower’s new facade in Paris-La Défense.
2025 Biennial Project
Project Overview
University of Dakar Cheikh Anta Diop Housing Campus
The University of Dakar Cheikh Anta Diop Housing Campus expands student accommodations with sixteen new bioclimatic buildings. Designed to address the urgent demand for housing, the project combines thermal comfort, natural ventilation, and solar shading while protecting one of Dakar’s last major green areas. Building orientations capture prevailing winds, while shaded façades, high ceilings, and rain gardens manage stormwater and cool outdoor spaces. A modular post-and-beam structure allows adaptable layouts and integrates key environmental strategies.
Previous work
Project Overview
Venue
View moreChicago Cultural Center
Address
78 E. Washington St., Chicago, IL 60602
Neighborhood
The Loop
Description
Completed in 1897 as Chicago’s first central library, the building was established as the Chicago Cultural Center, the nation’s first and most comprehensive free municipal cultural venue, in 1991. One of the most visited attractions in Chicago, the stunning landmark building is home to two magnificent stained-glass domes, as well as free art exhibitions, performances, tours, lectures, family activities, music, and more – presented by the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and many others.
