Atelier LUMA: Merging Design, Innovation and Sustainability in Arles

Atelier LUMA: Merging Design, Innovation and Sustainability in Arles

Atelier LUMA, located in the heart of the Parc des Ateliers in Arles, is an innovative design research laboratory. Founded in 2016, it brings together a multidisciplinary team dedicated to enhancing local resources and promoting sustainable practices. This article explores the studio's flagship projects, including the use of salt and rice straw in construction, illustrating its commitment to a circular and local economy.

At the heart of the Parc des Ateliers in Arles, Atelier LUMA stands out as an innovative design research laboratory rooted in a bioregional approach. Since its founding in 2016, this collaborative space has brought together designers, engineers, scientists and experts from diverse backgrounds to tackle today's environmental, economic and social challenges: Site internet Luma

Atelier LUMA's approach is based on the use of local and often under-exploited resources, such as invasive plants, agricultural co-products, algae and industrial waste. This methodology aims to add value to these materials by transforming them into sustainable, innovative products, while promoting a local, circular economy: Site internet : Marcelle

Notable achievements include the development of building materials based on raw earth and lime, architectural ceramics and wall coverings in crystallized salt from local salt pans. These projects illustrate Atelier LUMA's commitment to integrating sustainable, environmentally-friendly practices into contemporary design: Site internet ; Weever

In 2023, Atelier LUMA moved into the Magasin Électrique, a historic 19thᵉ century building renovated to house its activities. This venue offers research spaces, production workshops and a resource center, fostering collaborations between local communities, artisans, industries and academic institutions : Site internet : Luma

Among the innovative projects, Atelier LUMA explored the use of salt as a building material. Working with local partners, they developed crystallized salt wall panels for La Tour, demonstrating salt's potential as an abundant and versatile resource: Site internet : Weever

In addition, the workshop organized hands-on workshops on rice straw construction, offering participants an immersion in sustainable, local building techniques. These initiatives reflect Atelier LUMA's commitment to promoting environmentally-friendly building practices and enhancing traditional know-how: Site internet Weever

To find out more about Atelier LUMA's current projects, exhibitions and events, please visit our references