MUE, a temporary occupation project

Maëlle Blain was awarded second prize in the CFAI (French Council of Interior Architects) Young Talent Competition for her temporary installation project "MUE." The competition's awards ceremony provided an opportunity for the 26 candidates (represented by 14 schools recognized by the CFAI) to present their projects to professionals. 



What if waiting became an opportunity…

"MUE’s mission is to temporarily occupy vacant buildings, putting them to good use while awaiting their renovation, all while meeting the needs of the local community.

Rather than letting a space fall into disrepair over the years, the idea is to revitalize it by finding a use for it, even if only temporary.

This use benefits residents, people who use the space, and property owners. At the same time, it helps lay the groundwork for the future project by allowing for the testing of potential uses before the final project is implemented, so that the final project can be tailored as closely as possible to the area’s actual needs.

MUE has turned the challenge of temporary occupancy into its unique selling point. Indeed, the environmental impact of temporary occupancy is significant, which is why MUE has paid particular attention to the materials used in this project. The space is designed using corrugated cardboard partitions, wooden structures, and cardboard furniture. Contrary to popular belief, cardboard is a material that is sturdy, lightweight, and insulating. It is a modular, durable, reversible, and 100% recyclable system."