A true innovation within the Principality, the new Mareterra district is a real estate development project located at the entrance to Monaco. It is designed as an extension of the existing coastline, from the Grimaldi Forum (Le Palais des Congrès) to the Formula 1 Grand Prix tunnel. It is a considerable project involving the rehabilitation of various sites as well as the construction of an offshore extension that will create new land. The project, also known as Portier Cove or Anse du Portier, will be Monaco's future 11th district.
At the end of the project, the site will include not only 120 luxury residences, but also green spaces, recreational and cultural facilities such as a new public square, restaurants and shops, and a magnificent waterfront promenade. S.A.M. L'Anse Du Portier is behind this new construction site, from design to development, financing and marketing.
Eco-responsibility: a prime objective
The project aims to create a new eco-neighborhood in the Mediterranean Sea, although this may seem rather contradictory. How can you use a naturally protected area to create new living space? Yet this is the primary challenge of this large-scale project, estimated at 2 billion euros: to build a new site in the sea while respecting the surrounding marine environment. Prince Albert II explains that the offshore extension is being rigorously monitored by a committee of experts to ensure that environmental preservation remains at the heart of the project, from start to finish. Many environmental engineers are involved in this attractive project. Their work is part of what is known as an ARC approach, which aims to "Avoid, Reduce, Compensate", these three words corresponding to the three major stages respected in the construction of the eco-neighborhood. To Avoid, steps were taken upstream to limit environmental impact. This same impact remains at the heart of the project, with the aim of Reducing it as much as possible during the construction phase. Finally, the last objective of this approach is to Compensate, which implies attributing an ecological dimension to constructions in order to re-establish the balance between the initial state, i.e. pre-works, and the result resulting from these works. For example, one of the first technical advances in the Mareterra project was the design of foundations that were conceived in such a way as to best integrate the coastline. Since then, new habitats have been created to enable aquatic flora and fauna to adapt to their altered environment.
An architectural feat
The Renzo building is undoubtedly Mareterra's most impressive feature. Internationally renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano was responsible for the design of this new residence, which he describes as "a floating vessel on the Monte Carlo waterfront". Inspired by the natural elements of the coastline, the man with the giant's vision imagined a kind of ship, each fragment of which brings together the residences. The design will be luxurious and modern, in the image of Monaco, this small country with such great resources.
Another key element that will appeal to the Monegasque population and international visitors alike is the future Promenade Prince Jacques, with its harmonious curve stretching for almost 600 meters. Sheltered by a " roof cap ", this elegant concrete walkway will be the perfect place to observe the Mediterranean Sea from several vantage points, while protecting walkers from the sun and future residents from any potential vis-à-vis.
An ideal living environment
Hoping to inspire other similar projects around the world, the promoters of this ambitious eco-neighborhood are also keen to make this project a benchmark in terms of the technical performance implemented to respect the natural environment. This highly promising project, in terms of its scale and respect for biodiversity, is perfectly in keeping with the Principality's characteristic modernity. It diversifies Monaco's existing real estate offer by attracting new buyers and enriching the public space. The result? An improved and attractive living environment. A successful example of urban and real estate development. The Mareterra project perfectly meets the growing demands of the population while incorporating values of sustainability and environmental preservation.
The future eco-neighborhood on the Rock of Monaco is receiving enthusiastic support from both the Monegasque royal family and the Principality's residents. This brand-new district is a showcase of urban and architectural prowess, proving that ecology and economy go hand in hand in the Principality of Monaco.