This exhibition aims to breathe new life into the iconic glass panels of the “sage leaf” windows at the Tours Nuages in Nanterre. As this architectural complex by Émile Aillaud—designated a 20th-century heritage site—undergoes extensive renovation, the old window frames are being replaced and are slated for disposal.
For Paris Design Week 2026, the Pavillon de l’Arsenal is teaming up with designers Anaïs Fernon, Clémence Bondon, and Camille Sardet to present a group exhibition. A dozen creators dedicated to repurposing neglected materials will contribute to this collection of unique works designed for the occasion, giving them a second life and a new purpose. Following the exhibition and after it has been displayed at other institutions in Nanterre, the works will be donated to local organizations.
For the Pavillon de l’Arsenal, this is also an opportunity to trace the history of these towers, which are part of Nanterre’s architectural heritage. In this large housing complex designed by architect Émile Aillaud in 1973, the “sage leaf” cutout embodies the desire to bring poetry as close as possible to the residents. With the participation of Fabio Rieti for the facade murals, Laurence Rieti for the monumental sculpture “Serpent,” and Michel Corajoud for the landscaped base, the Tours Nuages project was a powerful act of collective creation.
Workshops will be organized before and during the exhibition with cultural partners and neighborhood residents.
For the Pavillon de l’Arsenal, this is also an opportunity to trace the history of these towers, which are part of Nanterre’s architectural heritage. In this large housing complex designed by architect Émile Aillaud in 1973, the “sage leaf” cutout embodies the desire to bring poetry as close as possible to the residents. With the participation of Fabio Rieti for the facade murals, Laurence Rieti for the monumental sculpture “Serpent,” and Michel Corajoud for the landscaped base, the Tours Nuages project was a powerful act of collective creation.
Workshops will be organized before and during the exhibition with cultural partners and neighborhood residents.
