The Marine Security Guard Residence (MSGR) is a discreet residence for U.S. Marine Security Guards that respectfully integrates into an historic garden landscape while maximizing opportunities for daylighting and access to greenery. It accommodates active-duty U.S. Marines supporting the diplomatic mission of the United States in Paris, France. Located in the vicinity of the U.S. embassy and the Residence of the U.S. Ambassador, the project is an integral part of the work the U.S. embassy is doing in France.

The design for the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations (OBO) Paris MSGR focuses on creating secluded and restful interiors while respecting the exceptional cultural heritage of its context. The project transforms an existing parking lot along the Champ- Elysees into a discreet residential building surrounded by dense gardens. The modest scale of the massing and intimate relationship with the surrounding landscape creates an elegant transition between the project, the large volume of the neighboring buildings to the west, and the gardens to the east.

Throughout the design and intensive approvals process, MMA worked closely with OBO to develop the project in accordance with all design standards and the uniquely sensitive requirements of the site. Strategically designed to remain unseen, the primary single-story structure is nearly invisible from the street and purposefully imperceptible from the adjacent Elysee Palace, Grand Palais and Petit Palais. The treatment of the roofs, which are almost entirely planted, further strengthens the building’s seamless integration with its surroundings.

The facility includes 14 housing units, common spaces, a gym, and kitchen for Marine Security Guards. The central Representational Space serves as the main living room for the Marines and, supportive of the diplomatic mission there, receives guests for scheduled group events. The program is arranged to maintain privacy for the occupants with residential units positioned towards the back of the site and common areas closer to the street entrance. The living areas are organized around central courtyards that provide daylighting and connection to outdoor spaces. Large glass windows bring diffused light from the garden courtyards into common areas while the scale, volume and materials of the project are reflective of a pavilion within a garden.