Paris-based stéphane maupin architectes have recently completed 'M building', an apartment block containing 20 residences on rue rebière in paris, france. positioned upon a 600 meter long and 25 meter wide plot, a split building form responds to urban zoning constraints due to its positioning next to a cemetery. eliminating a prominent front elevation, the cascading flats are oriented towards the middle of the narrow site, opening each unit to sunlight throughout the year and multiple sight lines into the canopies of nearby mature trees. the 45 degree slopes of the internal faces incline to create a centrally located and shared rooftop terrace that is illuminated at all times of the day.
Incorporating the rhythm and proportions of parisian roofs, each unit is stepped in a disorderly yet predictable manner with wide terraces that double as hanging gardens. the inward scheme adds an intimate atmosphere, inviting dwellers to communicate with their neighbors across the void or visit friends without crossing any streets with a linear staircase that connects the lofts, evoking the feeling of a small village. the external appearance maintains a neutral finish which changes to a shiny metal sheathing,reflecting light upon the internal surfaces.