Photographing the Arènes de Picasso – Postmodern Social Housing in Noisy-le-Grand
How do you photograph the boldness of unconventional social housing? The Arènes de Picasso in Noisy-le-Grand are an icon of 1980s postmodern architecture, blending monumental scale with social vision.
Located in the heart of the Pablo Picasso district in Noisy-le-Grand, the Arènes de Picasso impress with their monumental scale and daring design. Nicknamed by some “the Camembert” or “the flying saucer,” this circular housing complex is a strong symbol of 1980s urban planning in the Paris region.
Designed by architect Manuel Núñez Yanowsky, the project embodies a postmodern vision of collective housing. Home to nearly 540 apartments, the building is structured around a vast central patio, with facades punctuated by circular windows that evoke both ancient arenas and spacecrafts.
The architecture plays with contrasts: bold geometric forms, shadows and symmetry, and rhythmic patterns of openings—all offering rich visual interest, highly appreciated by photographers and lovers of contemporary design. The Arènes de Picasso have become a recurring subject in photographic series devoted to unique social housing.
See more photographs of postmodern architecture in the Paris region
Beyond its unique aesthetics, the building also raises questions about our relationship with cities, public space, and urban density. It reflects an ambition to deliver social housing far from the anonymous norm. This work illustrates the visionary approach of its architect, whose other creations can be found throughout the Paris suburbs.
This image invites us to rediscover this iconic site, where perfect geometry meets everyday life. A strong architectural subject that fits seamlessly into an artistic approach celebrating urban heritage.
About the photographer: Sebastien Desnoulez is a photographer of contemporary and urban architecture. He explores unique forms of collective housing in the Paris suburbs, like here at the Arènes de Picasso. Learn more.
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All the photos displayed on this website are copyright protected © Sebastien Desnoulez. No use allowed without written authorization.
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