The 3 Fontaines Shopping Centre is undergoing a transformation with the contribution of Hunter Douglas Architectural

In Cergy-Pontoise, the “3 Fontaines” Shopping Center has recently undergone a spectacular transformation, thanks to a vast renovation and extension operation launched in 2018 by the Hammerson group. For this project, Hunter Douglas Architectural provided a solid wood ceiling that, combining aesthetics and technology, met all expectations.

A Hunter Douglas ceiling for a large-scale project

As a symbol of Val d’Oise, the “3 Fontaines” Shopping Center has recently undergone a colossal renovation project. Designed by the eminent architects Claude Vasconi and André Georgel, the center had already undergone several transformations: first in 1996 after its acquisition by the Hammerson group, then again in 2016.

For the latest operation, which spanned 4 years from 2018, the objective was to make “3 Fontaines” one of the largest and most attractive commercial destinations in Île-de-France. Directed by the London agency BDP specialized in shopping centers and the Parisian agency ORY.architecture, this ambitious initiative of nearly 360 million euros, thus redefined the space with the creation of 72 new units and a clever reconfiguration of the different sectors.

At the heart of this transformation, a Hunter Douglas Architectural wooden ceiling displaying carefully designed slopes. Made of solid wood, with a multi panel linear system with widths of 65, 92, and 150 mm, this ceiling system was installed indoors, in the food court area “District”, and outdoors, on a newly created part and a renovated part.

An aesthetic solution, for a modern and elegant result

For this project, Hunter Douglas Architectural selected American yellow pine. The solid wood was coated with a colored varnish. The manufacturer’s intention was to meet the client’s requirements by providing an aesthetic devoid of visual defects: the yellow pine wood thus treated reveals no flaws to the naked eye. Located at a dizzying height, the ceiling displays all the nobility of a quality solid wood.

In terms of panels arrangement, Hunter Douglas Architectural proposed a layout with three different widths, to create a “random” effect in line with the architect’s vision. The result is a ceiling that is both modern and elegant, offering an exceptional visual experience. In addition, lighting elements have been integrated into the ceiling. ‘

The effect created is thus breathtaking; whether indoors or outdoors. Indeed, with large windows overlooking the outside of the building, the architects wanted to create an interior-exterior continuity. Therefore, the same system was used outside, with one distinction: a specially adapted varnish, resistant to humidity and temperature variations, was used.

A technical solution, for easy installation and convincing acoustics

If the ceiling system proposed by the manufacturer convinced aesthetically, the technical aspect was a determining factor in the choice of the solution.

By relying on a system of panels, the Hunter Douglas Architectural solution proves to be ideal for the installation and maintenance of such a ceiling. Moreover, the implementation with SLR10 aluminum extruded suspension in U-shape was a judicious choice. The chosen system thus allows for easy installation and panel-by-panel disassembly, thus solving the technical challenge posed by the sloped ceiling.

Olivier Tordjman, Key Account Manager at Hunter Douglas, explains: “It was this technical aspect that made the difference with the installation company; moreover, the added value of the support from Hunter Douglas Architectural’s engineering office throughout the project was probably a decisive factor for the rapid adoption of the solution”.

Furthermore, with a 75 mm gap between the wooden panels and the installation of an acoustic mattress to enhance sound absorption, the Hunter Douglas Architectural solution offers convincing acoustics for a bustling shopping centre.

With this project, Hunter Douglas Architectural once again proves that its contribution goes beyond the aesthetic aspect. By meeting the demands of its clients and being proactive, the manufacturer anticipates the needs of its clients and provides solutions for all projects, even the most demanding.