Two years after its launch in 2022, the transformation of the former Floréal Knitwear factory at Mangalkhan stands as a testament to the CIEL Group’s commitment to sustainable development, grounded in the circular economy, social inclusion, and the valorization of industrial heritage.
Led by Evolis Properties, a subsidiary of the Group, this unique project restores the iconic site to a central role in the community, creating a space where businesses, artisans, innovators, and residents can meet and grow together. Since its inception, the project has created 1,100 jobs, hosted 51 businesses, and deployed essential services: a modern gym with a variety of classes, a recreational space with academic support for children, a secure play area, health services including paramedical care and a pharmacy, as well as various dining spaces and a hair salon.
A Sustainable and Committed Rehabilitation Project
From the outset, the renovation of Nouvelle Usine was designed with sustainability in mind, preserving the building’s identity while modernizing it. This transformation is aligned with the CIEL Group’s environmental strategy, which prioritizes innovation while respecting local resources. Divya Servansing, Sustainability Manager at the CIEL Group, explains: “With Nouvelle Usine, we demonstrate that it is possible to combine heritage valorization and sustainable development. By involving local stakeholders and reusing materials, we are progressing toward our goal of reducing environmental impact while simultaneously creating economic opportunities for the community. This is a concrete model of the circular economy coming to life, and we are particularly proud of it.”
In collaboration with La Déchetèque, The Good Shop, and the Jugaad architectural firm, an upcycling and reuse approach was implemented to minimize environmental impact. Recovered materials, transformed furniture, and structures adapted to new energy standards: every decision was guided by the intention to reduce the carbon footprint and promote a local circular economy.
Olivier Laure, General Manager of Evolis Properties, explains: “Regenerating a place is about giving it new meaning by creating opportunities, valorizing existing resources with a positive impact on the community. Every stage of the project has been designed to anchor this dynamic and make this place a living laboratory, proving that such a project is not only feasible but also a source of long-term value.”
Numerous Restoration and Upcycling Initiatives Giving New Life to Industrial Past Elements
Old weaving tables have been transformed into decorative elements for the restaurant, while old factory furniture has been restored and modernized to dress the common areas. But there is much more—walking through the site, one discovers numerous examples of clever reuse. For example, old filing cabinets have been turned into ‘planter boxes’, bringing a touch of greenery to the spaces.
The optimization of natural ventilation has also reduced energy consumption by 20%, further strengthening Nouvelle Usine’s commitment to a sustainable and eco-friendly approach. Each corner of the site tells a story of preservation and creativity, illustrating the desire to give new life to materials while blending heritage with modernity.
Social Impact at the Heart of the Project
Beyond architectural rehabilitation, Nouvelle Usine embodies the CIEL Group’s commitment to inclusive projects with meaningful impact. The site’s transformation mobilized diverse skills, providing new opportunities for artisans and workers in the region. Residents of Mangalkhan and nearby areas were actively involved in the work, contributing 4,480 hours of local employment, further embedding the project in its environment.
For some, the renovation rekindled a special connection with the site, as many workers remembered their parents or relatives who had also worked at the factory back in the day. Giving new life to this space honors its heritage while transforming it into a driver of new dynamics for the local community.
Nouvelle Usine in Numbers
• 293 tons of materials removed from the site
• 11% recycled or redistributed
• 4.6 tons reintegrated directly into the renovation
• 4,480 hours of work allocated to local residents
• 20% reduction in energy consumption thanks to natural ventilation
• Ongoing recycling and waste sorting program since 2022, in collaboration with Don’t Waste:
• 62 tons of paper
• 48 tons of general waste
• 6.2 tons of plastic
• 1.5 tons of metal
This represents a reduction of 145,945 m³ of carbon dioxide, equivalent to saving 1,193 trees.
A Reimagined Place for Collaboration and Innovation
Located just 230 meters from the Floréal metro station, Nouvelle Usine offers adaptable spaces suited to current needs: offices, coworking, meeting rooms, dining, and wellness areas. Nouvelle Usine breathes new life into a historic site, offering a modern and connected space for today’s working realities.
