4 unités LC - Architecture Insights

52. Looking out to Blvd Michelet
from the lift foyer, Marseille .
53-54. View of the ‘Unité
d’habitation’ from Blvd Michelet,
and view from the carpark of
the commercial centre behind.
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I.3 Context
Marseille is France’s second largest city, and also one of its
oldest. 31 Its proximity to the Middle East and Northern Africa has
leant to its diverse population and culture. It is a vibrant city with a
relaxed atmosphere, and its warm southern climate has established
it as a popular holiday destination.
But it is not just the climate and atmosphere that have brought the
tourists to Marseille. Many visitors to the city, both national and
international have been drawn to it almost entirely because of Le
Corbusier’s famous ‘Unité d’habitation’. 32 The building, now
classified as an historical monument, is by far the city’s most well
known edifice – sign posted with directions, from just about every
point around the area.
Whether liked, or disliked, the ‘Unité’ has become Marseille’s most
identifying feature. It is now almost fifty years old, and being the
first and most famous of all the ‘Unité d’habitation’ buildings, its
construction has become one of the most important events in the
history of the city.