Cultural landmark Cité des Imaginaires takes shape

One year after winning the international design competition, the sustainable and circular transformation of Cité des Imaginaires and Grand Musée Jules Verne in Nantes is taking shape. Neutelings Riedijk Architects and ARS Architectes Urbanistes, in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team, are advancing the design of this ambitious cultural project, which aims to open in 2028, coinciding with the bicentennial of Jules Verne’s birth.

Sustainability and Architectural Innovation

Rooted in bioclimatic design, Cité des Imaginaires maximizes energy efficiency, using Loire winds for cooling, geothermal heating, and rainwater recycling. With 24 tons of reclaimed materials, low-carbon and bio-based construction, and a recycled stainless steel “Ciel” volume, it preserves heritage while its “climate machine” garden ensures year-round thermal comfort.

A Space for Exploration and Exchange

Cité des Imaginaires will be a dynamic museum and a dynamic cultural hub, open to all, where imagination, science fiction, and global challenges intersect. It will house 350 rare Jules Verne artifacts, including original Hetzel editions, making it the largest Verne archive worldwide. The spatial design encourages interaction, creating a balance between open and enclosed areas for exhibitions, events, and public engagement.

Innovative Scenography & Expert Collaboration

Neutelings Riedijk Architects and ARS Architectes Urbanistes lead the team consisting of Artelia, Franck Boutté Consultants, Scénorama, and Acoustibel, merging heritage, sustainability, and imagination in a contemporary museum and cultural open hub design. The Cité des Imaginaires will immerse visitors in Jules Verne’s universe through interactive storytelling.

While advancing the design, Cité des Imaginaires is shaping up as a reference for sustainable cultural redevelopment.

Refer to the project page for more information.