The Louvain district in Vélizy-Villacoublay is undergoing a far-reaching transformation, driven by a clear ambition to make nature a central lever of urban renewal. Designed by landscape architects Urbicus, the project places planting at the heart of the district’s restructuring, both for residents’ comfort and for environmental quality. 

All the trees planted as part of the scheme were supplied by Van den Berk Nurseries, recognised for their expertise in growing large specimens suited to the urban environment. The planting palette was carefully selected for its diversity, resilience and aesthetic value, with particular attention to native species and climate change. 

The new planting now structures the public realm, supports biodiversity and actively helps combat urban heat islands. Strong emphasis has been placed on green networks, tree-lined routes and planted shared spaces, designed to encourage sociability and social connection. 

This ambitious project received the gold medal from Valhor, the French interprofessional organisation for horticulture, landscape and floristry, as well as the Grand Prix National du Paysage, with a special mention from the jury, highlighting its exemplary quality in landscape design, sustainability and social impact. 

Through this large-scale planting-led regeneration, Vélizy-Villacoublay is affirming its commitment to building a greener, more resilient and more human city, where the landscape becomes a key player in the ecological transition and in quality of life.