Tucked away in the bustling business district of La Défense, just a stone's throw from Paris, the Tour First stands as a beacon of modern architecture and engineering prowess. This towering skyscraper, also known as Tour CB31, captures the imagination with its sleek design and impressive stature, making it the tallest building in France. Its story is one of transformation and innovation, reflecting the dynamic spirit of the city it graces.
The origins of the Tour First date back to 1974 when it was initially constructed under the name Tour Assur. Designed by the renowned architect Pierre Dufau, the original structure stood at 159 meters and was a symbol of the burgeoning insurance industry in France. The building's unique star-shaped design, with three branches emanating from a central core, was a nod to the merger of three insurance companies that formed the Union des Assurances de Paris (UAP).
In 1998, following the acquisition of UAP by AXA, the tower was renamed Tour AXA. This period marked the beginning of a new chapter for the building, as it continued to serve as a prominent office space in the heart of La Défense. However, the real transformation was yet to come.
From 2007 to 2011, the Tour First underwent a massive renovation and expansion project, masterminded by the American architectural firm Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates in collaboration with the French firm SRA. This ambitious project not only revamped the building's exterior but also increased its height to a staggering 231 meters, making it the tallest skyscraper in France.
The renovation involved a complete overhaul of the building's façade, replacing the old concrete exterior with sleek glass and steel. This transformation gave the tower a modern, futuristic look that stands out against the skyline of La Défense. The interior was also redesigned to create more open and flexible office spaces, catering to the needs of contemporary businesses.
One of the most striking features of the renovated Tour First is its spire, which adds a touch of elegance and grandeur to the building. Although the original plan included a mast that would have extended the height to 240 meters, it was ultimately abandoned, leaving the tower at its current height.
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Today, the Tour First is home to several major corporations, making it a hub of business and innovation. One of the key tenants is the global audit and consulting firm EY, which occupies 37,000 square meters across 36 floors. The tower also houses the credit insurance company Euler Hermes, which has its offices spread over 21,000 square meters from the 32nd to the 45th floor.
In addition to these corporate giants, the Tour First also provides space for smaller businesses and startups. The coworking space Kwerk occupies two floors, offering 390 workstations in both open and closed office configurations. This vibrant coworking environment is designed by Albert Angel, the co-founder of Kwerk, and features a giant trompe-l'œil library that adds a whimsical touch to the space.
The Tour First is not just a functional office building; it is also an architectural marvel that showcases the best of modern design and engineering. The building's sleek glass façade reflects the ever-changing sky, creating a dynamic visual experience for onlookers. At night, the tower comes alive with a stunning light display that changes colors to indicate the weather forecast for the following day, adding a touch of magic to the La Défense skyline.
Visitors to the Tour First can also enjoy breathtaking views of Paris and its surroundings from the upper floors. On a clear day, the panoramic vistas extend for miles, offering a unique perspective on the city's iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe.
The Tour First stands as a symbol of progress and innovation, embodying the spirit of La Défense and its role as a leading business district in Europe. Its transformation from the Tour Assur to the tallest skyscraper in France is a testament to the power of vision and creativity in shaping the built environment.
Whether you are a business professional working in the tower, a tourist exploring the architectural wonders of La Défense, or simply an admirer of modern design, the Tour First is a must-see destination. Its striking presence and rich history make it a landmark that continues to inspire and captivate all who encounter it.
In conclusion, the Tour First is more than just a skyscraper; it is a beacon of modernity and a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation. As it stands tall above the streets of Courbevoie, it serves as a reminder of the limitless possibilities that await those who dare to dream and build for the future.
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