GRAND CENTRAL
MARSEILLE - FRANCE
Programme
Renovation of the former Hôtel de la Poste into a public access building featuring offices on five floors, a coworking and dining area on the ground floor, an auditorium, meeting rooms, and utility rooms in the basement, and a rooftop on the sixth floor
Client
ARKADEA (ICADE+POSTE IMMO)
Area
9,577 m²
Cost
11 M€
Scope
Architectural Design and Construction Supervision
Schedule
Command 2020 Completed in 2023
Environment
SUSTAINABLE BUILDING, “HIGH PERFORMANCE” LEVEL
BREEAM RFO CERTIFICATION, “VERY GOOD” LEVEL
WIREDSCORE CERTIFICATION, GOLD LEVEL
Team
Delegated client : La Poste Immobilier, Icade
Architect : SUD architectes
Site supervision : Artelia
Asbestos removal project management : LMPR
Engineering consultancy : Iliade Ingenierie
Group of contractors : Leon Grosse, Spie
Environmental consultancy : Eood
Geotechnical engineer : Geotec
Soil pollution / remediation : Letourneur Conseil
Technical inspection body : Apave
Health & safety coordinator : Surbat
Photographer : Gilles Bader (Vue aérienne)
In Marseille’s 1st arrondissement, the Grand Central project involves the conversion of the former Post Office building, constructed in 1938 by architect Auguste Bluysen. Listed as a Historic Monument, the building is highly distinctive, particularly due to its integration with the Saint-Cannat Church, creating an unusual architectural dialogue between two very different functions.
The project aims to completely redevelop the building to accommodate office spaces across multiple levels, complemented by a coworking space, dining areas on the ground floor, and a rooftop terrace on an upper level. This new program breathes new life into an iconic 20th-century commercial heritage site.
The architectural intervention is guided by a philosophy of respect and continuity, offering a retro-modern reinterpretation of the existing architecture. The goal is to preserve the building’s identity while adapting it to current commercial uses and contemporary comfort standards.
The renovation also allows for the installation of the new headquarters of the newspaper La Provence, reinforcing the site’s commercial and media focus. The spaces have been redesigned to promote flexibility, user-friendliness, and quality of use.
The project is part of a rigorous environmental initiative, featuring HQE, BREEAM, and WiredScore certifications, reflecting a focus on energy efficiency, the quality of digital experiences, and the sustainability of the building.
The complex represents a redevelopment in which heritage, modernity, and commercial uses come together to restore a major historic building in the heart of Marseille to its former prominence.
