On 28 November, the teams from IDEC, SEMMARIS and ODEON received the Geste d’Argent award, a prestigious architectural prize presented by the LE GESTE D’OR association, which recognises outstanding construction achievements and promotes sustainable building practices. The ODEON, HALLE FROMAGES & PASSION project, located at the heart of the Rungis International Market, stands out for its unique architecture and its strong environmental approach.
LE GESTE D’OR, a prestigious award combining architecture and environmental commitment
The LE GESTE D’OR awards, organised by an independent association operating throughout France, recognise each year real estate projects that convey strong architectural and environmental values.
Projects are assessed against several criteria, including the quality of the construction achievement and its compatibility with a sustainable development approach. The award-winning projects distinguish themselves through their ability to combine architectural excellence with environmental responsibility.
The ODEON, HALLE FROMAGES & PASSION project awarded the Geste d’Argent 2025
Designed and delivered by IDEC for SEMMARIS, and operated by ODEON, a specialist in dairy products and cheeses, this unique refrigerated building at the Rungis International Market was conceived to showcase traditional cheese maturation expertise.
The ageing rooms have been arranged as a true architectural display, allowing visitors to observe the work of cheese maturation specialists from outside the building.
The architecture draws its inspiration from cheese boards and cheese boxes: a solid base reflecting the craftsmanship of the affineurs, topped by lighter volumes that create a connection between the product, its terroir and its presentation.
Bio-based materials, bold architecture and a low-carbon approach
The ODEON, HALLE FROMAGES & PASSION project stands out through the use of sustainable materials, including an exceptional timber structure featuring 42-metre beams and a sculpted relief façade.
Its bold architectural design gives the building a strong visual identity while remaining fully integrated within the environment of the Rungis International Market, offering an original architectural showcase for the products housed inside.
The project also incorporates an exemplary environmental approach through a low-carbon energy mix combining the district heating network with rooftop photovoltaic panels.
Extensive landscaping further contributes to reducing the environmental impact of the development while improving the working environment for its users.
A project symbolising the architectural renewal of the Rungis International Market
With this distinction, IDEC reaffirms its commitment alongside SEMMARIS to actively contribute to the architectural renewal of the Rungis International Market.
The project further strengthens a partnership that has lasted for more than twenty years between IDEC and SEMMARIS, a collaboration already marked by several landmark developments, with many more significant projects to come in the months ahead.
