Rethinking office spaces through the circular economy

In 2025, when the Nantes Saint-Nazaire Développement agency began transforming its workspaces, it sought to go beyond a simple redesign project. “The goal was to create more functional and pleasant offices, while minimizing the environmental impact of the construction project as much as possible,” explains Bérénice Ouzilleau, Director of Networks and International Affairs at Nantes Saint-Nazaire Développement.

To meet this challenge, Nantes Saint-Nazaire Développement has chosen to draw on the expertise of Merci René!, a Nantes-based company specializing in design and production within the circular economy.

Redeveloping Space Through the Circular Economy

Rather than systematically replacing materials and furniture, the project was designed using the resources already available on-site. Partitions were carefully dismantled and then reinstalled; trellises were transformed into new design elements; furniture was retained; plumbing fixtures were preserved; and bio-based paints and insulation were used: every decision was guided by the desire to conserve resources and reduce carbon emissions.

Making the Most of What We Have

This initiative brought together several local partners, including the Nantes-based organization Gueules de Bois, which designed a pergola made from reclaimed wood that has become the centerpiece of the office entrance, as well as L2A Agencement, which supported the construction work by implementing reuse of materials directly on site.

Items that did not fit into the new layout were either sent to Reuse programs or donated to nonprofit organizations.

“Beyond its environmental impact, this project demonstrates that it is possible to design more sustainable workspaces without sacrificing comfort, functionality, or architectural quality,” emphasizes Alice Jubré, executive director of Nantes Saint-Nazaire Développement.