Imagine a bustling construction site nestled between the Boulevard Rainier-III and the narrow Rue Plati. This vibrant spot, bordered by the residential complexes of Les Mélèzes, Hélios, and Jardins d’Apolline, is transforming into a modern masterpiece.
A Grand Vision Rises from the Ground
Construction on the “Grand Ida” real estate project, which began in 2020 with noisy excavation and foundation work, is moving forward with a steady pace. The “up and down” technique has been implemented to meet strict deadlines. This means the building’s structure is rising simultaneously with its infrastructure. As each month passes, the building grows taller, symbolizing the project’s rapid progress.
A Flourishing Future: Expanded Scope and Sustainability
The “Grand Ida” project is not only ambitious but also flexible. The latest plans, endorsed by the City Council in December, reveal a more open design with larger living spaces for residents and neighbors alike. The project’s scope has been significantly expanded:
- Increased Housing: The project will now offer 218 apartments, a significant increase from the initial plan of 159 units.
- Ample Parking: The number of parking spaces has also increased to 404, including 30 public spots, surpassing the original plan of 290 spaces.
- Enhanced Community Spaces: The apartment dedicated to the AMAPEI, an organization for people with disabilities, has gained an additional room. The 35-berth daycare center has been enlarged to over 150 square meters.
- Boosting Commercial and Office Space: The number of commercial units has been raised from 2 to 5, while the number of office units has been increased from 1 to 10.
- Sustainable Solutions: The project will feature a rooftop framework for solar panels, reflecting a commitment to environmental sustainability. The “Grand Ida” project aims to achieve the bronze label of the “Sustainable Mediterranean Building of Monaco” (BD2M) certification.
A Community Focus: Prioritizing Well-being
The “Grand Ida” project goes beyond bricks and mortar. It embraces a vision of community well-being, with a strong emphasis on green spaces. Out of the total 4,700 square meters, a generous 2,200 square meters will be dedicated to green areas.
“This is a positive development for the balance of this neighborhood, which I hold dear,” expressed Françoise Gamerdinger, a council member, highlighting the importance of greenery. “It is an example to follow for future projects,” added André Campana, another council member.
A Beacon of Progress: Balancing Modernity and Tradition
Mayor Georges Marsan expressed his delight at the inclusion of a daycare center within the project, emphasizing its crucial role. He also advocated for government financial support for the daycare, drawing a parallel with the current situation regarding the Testimonio daycare.
François Lallemand, the deputy mayor, concluded by emphasizing the harmonious arrangement of the three buildings. “We can see an interesting balance between the three buildings, with Block A being slightly higher than Block B to maintain the view, especially from the Princess Antoinette Park.”
The “Grand Ida” project stands as a testament to Monaco’s ongoing commitment to sustainable development, community well-being, and architectural innovation. This grand endeavor promises to transform the La Colle neighborhood, adding a touch of modern elegance while respecting the city’s heritage.
