Mozinor, or Bâtiment industriel Mozinor as it is known locally, stands as a testament to innovative industrial architecture in Montreuil, France. Conceived in the early 1970s by architects Claude Le Goas and G.-P. Bertrand, this vertical factory was a groundbreaking project aimed at redefining industrial spaces in urban settings. The name Mozinor is a portmanteau of Montreuil Zone Industrielle Nord, reflecting its location and purpose.
In 1963, the city of Montreuil envisioned creating the first vertical industrial zone in Europe, a bold move that required a visionary approach. Claude Le Goas, with his extensive experience working for the city, was the perfect candidate to bring this vision to life. His design featured a series of industrial units stacked atop one another, accessible via an internal highway designed as a double helix ramp. This unique feature allows trucks weighing up to 38 tonnes to reach every floor, making Mozinor a marvel of logistical engineering.
The vertical industrial city of Mozinor offers 42,000 square meters of activity space, including a panoramic terrace and a space initially intended for a company restaurant. This area, known as Lot 38, has seen various incarnations over the years, from a nightclub to its current use as artist studios. Each of the 38 lots within Mozinor boasts an average ceiling height of 6.30 meters and spans between 100 to 2,700 square meters, providing ample space for a variety of industrial and creative activities.
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Constructed in 1971, Mozinor was the first phase of a more extensive project aimed at reindustrializing the Montreuil plateau. Although the subsequent phases never materialized, the existing structure gained recognition for its impressive design. The specialized magazine La Construction moderne praised Mozinor in 1977, noting how its style harmoniously blended with the surrounding urban landscape.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Mozinor's rooftop became the epicenter of France's burgeoning rave scene. The iconic Lot 38, with its oval shape and spiral ramp, earned the nickname the flying saucer. According to Luc Bertagnol, an organizer of these legendary parties, the space could hold around 1,800 people, creating an otherworldly atmosphere with its indirect lighting and powerful sound system. These raves left an indelible mark on the French electronic music scene, making Mozinor a cultural landmark as well as an industrial one.
After a period of decline in the 2000s, Mozinor experienced a resurgence by 2013. The building now hosts around 450 workers employed by approximately 60 companies, ranging from manufacturers to designers. This diverse tenant mix reflects the adaptability and enduring relevance of Mozinor's design.
On Mozinor's rooftop, you'll find the Écodesign Fablab, the first fablab in the department. This innovative space repurposes waste materials from the building's various businesses, embodying a commitment to sustainability. Additionally, a two-hectare urban garden with trees has been planted on the roof, a green space that was part of the original design plan. This rooftop oasis provides a breath of fresh air in an otherwise industrial setting, highlighting Mozinor's forward-thinking approach to urban development.
Despite its many advantages, Mozinor faces challenges, particularly in terms of accessibility. The demolition of the A186 motorway to make way for a tram line has reduced the building's road connectivity. However, this change also aligns with broader efforts to promote public transportation and reduce reliance on cars, further emphasizing Mozinor's role as a pioneer in sustainable urban planning.
In conclusion, Mozinor is more than just an industrial building; it is a symbol of architectural innovation, cultural evolution, and sustainable development. Its unique design and rich history make it a fascinating destination for anyone interested in urban planning, industrial architecture, or the vibrant cultural history of Montreuil. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply curious about the evolution of industrial spaces, Mozinor offers a compelling glimpse into the future of urban industrial design.
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