For the first time in Lyon, a building will be constructed using a significant amount of bark beetle wood, a material sourced from trees affected by pests. In the Confluence neighborhood, a rather unique architectural project is set to rise. The initial work is expected to start this summer along the Cours Charlemagne, as part of a new urban block led by SPL Lyon Confluence on behalf of the metropolis.
At the heart of this real estate program called “La Hora,” a small pavilion designed to host offices will serve as a demonstration building. Its uniqueness: it will be largely constructed with bark beetle wood, a resource that is still very little used in the construction sector.
tion and totally unique to Lyon.
© REI Habitat/Demathieu Bard Immobilier
When a parasite transforms forests and inspires architecture
Scolytus wood comes from spruces attacked by bark beetles, tiny insects capable of decimating entire forests. These pests, barely larger than a pinhead, target trees weakened by climate change. The result: large forest areas in the Massif Central and the Jura are now affected by these attacks. But once cut, this wood remains perfectly usable. Despite a slight discoloration.ation, its structural qualities remain similar to those of healthy wood. Instead of being destroyed or left in the forest, it can be valued in construction projects, as will be the case in Lyon.
© REI Habitat/Demathieu Bard Immobilier
With the real estate project “La Hora”, Lyon aims to test a new way of building more sustainably on a large scale. The future pavilion made of beetle wood will be part of a group of six buildings expected to be completed by 2029. This small experimental building will fit among larger structures in this urban block that is undergoing transformation. The goal is clear: to demonstrate that a forest resource often considered problematic can become an asset in the ecological transition. By using this local wood, the developers hope to reduce the project's carbon footprint while supporting the forest and wood industry.
An experiment that could inspire other cities
This Lyon construction project could very well pave the way for...a new generation of eco-friendly buildings. By utilizing wood from trees weakened by climate change, this project also contributes to a more resilient management of French forests. The experiment conducted at the Confluence could inspire other real estate programs in the future.
Source : Lyon Confluence