Conversion of the Former Saint-Anne Prison

The first goal of our urban, architectural and landscape proposal was to work with the original 19^th-century layout of this large complex, clearing out the volumes and main structures. We would remove the outer boundary wall, the dividers in the courtyard, the lean-tos outside, and the partitions, mezzanines and subdivisions that had been added inside over time. We then planned to restore everything that could and should be restored. This included the façades and their openings, doors and windows, and load-bearing structures including the vaults and floors. Finally, we planned to introduce new, innovative ways of using the building for residents and the city. These would be designed with new work and social practices in mind (a fab lab and co-working space), other spaces for meeting and dining, and provide a flexible cultural venue for professionals and hobbyists. It also addressed new living practices including intergenerational living. This was a redesign of Sainte-Anne for the 21^st century. The portico on the façade of the main courtyard showed a preference for open space over solid walls; the rhythm of the loggias broke free from the strict order; the Corten-steel panels of the entrance created a link between the former women's and men's prisons; the lift provided an "escape route" to the Rocher des Doms above. Bringing people back into Sainte-Anne and reconnecting the old prison to the city would help link the Palais des Papes, the Rocher des Doms and the Banasterie neighbourhood. This is the best way to preserve the space while also reinventing it. Confinement and isolation give way to openness and sociability. Imprisonment is replaced by freedom. The former Sainte-Anne prison would become a symbol of a new way of life in Avignon and a new destination within it.