Marie Janson Square receives a Jury Distinction at the LILA 2026 Awards

The redevelopment of Marie Janson Square in Saint-Gilles, designed by Studio Paola Viganò – vvv architecture urbanisme, has received a Jury Distinction at the Landezine International Landscape Awards (LILA) 2026, one of the leading international awards dedicated to landscape architecture.

Marie Janson Square: making ecological transition a shared public space

The jury praised the project as a "well-designed and generous public space", highlighting its ability to transform a vast mineral surface into a landscape where permeable soils, trees, water management and a diversity of uses coexist within a coherent spatial composition. Particular recognition was given to the way the design brings together planted areas, meeting spaces, sports facilities, playgrounds, terraces, kiosks and places for relaxation while building upon the site's existing resources.

Located between the Parvis de Saint-Gilles and the network of green spaces that runs through the municipality, Marie Janson Square forms a key link within the neighbourhood's landscape continuity. Its transformation addresses several of the major challenges facing contemporary cities, including climate adaptation, stormwater management, material reuse, soil depaving and evolving patterns of mobility.

Rather than erasing what already exists, the project works with it. Existing tree alignments, paving, the sports court and the site's topography become the foundations of a new public space designed to evolve over time. A broad planted framework gradually structures the site, while the ground itself transitions from mineral to planted surfaces, creating a rich diversity of atmospheres and uses.

Conceived as a flexible public space, Marie Janson Square accommodates everyday activities as well as markets, cultural events and public gatherings that animate neighbourhood life.

Discover all the LILA 2026 winners on the official website.