One of the most ancient neighbourhood of Geneva, the Place Simon-Goulart is located between the Saint-Gervais temple, apartment buildings, two schools and several shops and replaces a car park after a huge area transformation process, which allowed the place to regain its position as a major public, breathing and relaxing space, while highlighting the surrounding buildings.
Morning, noon and evening, night and day, for the locals and people passing through, who are numerous. On your way into the town centre, between lectures, after a show at the Saint-Gervais Theatre, shopping on Saturday, after-school teatime, on your way to Cornavin Station, Saint-Gervais Church, or a party at the Salle du Faubourg community centre. For a drink, tea, a local festival, for a paddle, a quick snack, to discuss current affairs or make small talk. On the edge of town, along the town’s boulevards, an opportunity for inhabitants and other users of the town centre to take a break.
At the centre of the island, a square, a large area of slate-coloured paving stones, with a hedge along the edge of the boulevard, protecting it from a direct view of the traffic. Accompanying this planted strip, a large wooden platform hosts benches and tables – supports for the multiple activities of those using the space. On the paving stones, a concrete basin supplied with water from the existing fountain. Around the Church of Saint-Gervais, a pale stone forecourt frees up space around the entrances. In the shade of the walls, benches face onto the square.
