‘Unparalleled’, ‘unprecedented’, ‘exceptional’. The offshore extension in Monaco is characterized by exceptional qualities in all domains, as echoed by Mareterra, a new specialized initiative spearheaded by HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco.
The Extension is constructed adjacent to the mainland containing residences and extensive green spaces (Source: Mareterra).
Inspired by two complementary elements, namely sea and land, Mareterra consists of the world's most prestigious architects and engineers such as Renzo Piano. A few of his buildings include the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris, The Shard in London, and The Whitney Museum of American Art in New York.
Within the first quarter of 2013, the announcement of the artificial construction of an island connecting with the mainland of Monaco has disturbed locals due to the rise of construction in the second-smallest country in the world. With an active engagement in sustaining the local ecosystem whilst boosting the principality’s economy, Mareterra reports that 800 trees covering a total area of 27,000 square meters were planted.
‘Le Petit Portier’ will be the newly built port enabling individuals to access their boats within a few steps from their residence, underlining the delightful Mediterranean lifestyle of ‘savoir-vivre' (translated as 'know how to live’).
Visible on the top of the buildings, 9,000 square meters of solar panels tied to around 200 charging systems for electric vehicles will be exemplifying the mission of sustaining Monaco’s ecosystem. Reclaiming land of the sea without harming local species is a topic HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco spotlighted throughout the construction process.
To efficiently highlight the preservation of the marine environment, a specific census program was established and spearheaded by Dr. Jean de Vaugelas, Associate Professor at the University of Nice. Around 518 square metres of posidonia meadows that were 15 meters deep were relocated in the Larvotto reserve and along the Fontvieille embankment.
Moreover, 143 noble pen shells, large bi-valve shells were moved into a protective space along the coastline. The additional supervision of marine biologists enhanced secure methods of transportation and further growth for all species that were moved due to the construction.
Residences at The Extension are rumored to be already sold before completion of the project, due to their waterfront location coupled with luxurious additions designed by Renzo Piano. The residential district is split into four distinctive locations namely ‘Le Renzo’ a series of apartments, ‘Les Jardins d’Eau’ larger apartments surrounded by pure-nature, ‘Les Villas’ highly-exclusive waterfront mansions, and ‘Les Townhouses’ villa’s covered with nature to underline Mareterra’s connection to nature.
The overall completion of The Extension is estimated for November 2024 under the leadership of its founder Michel Desvigne.
“I think it’s thrilling; the idea of having a neighborhood, with all its public spaces, its own richness and interest, in addition to the fact it is tucked within this nature. It’s kind of what we dream about doing everywhere.”
Mr. Desvigne underlines this notion for the last few stages before the completion in November 2024. The establishment of Monaco as a premier international real estate hub is a significant objective that Mareterra aspires to achieve upon the completion of The Extension.
