Unesco enlisted the services of CALQ to renovate the largest conference room in its Paris headquarters on Place de Fontenoy. Historically, Room I in Building II has been devoted to meetings of the General Conference, one of the governing bodies of the organisation. The room, which holds a powerful symbol value, had to bear the brunt of major modifications when it was renovated in the 1980’s.

Requests for technical improvements expressed by Unesco (fire safety systems, accessibility for persons with reduced mobility, security) were incorporated by CALQ into a more global proposal with the same budget. In spirit, CALQ chose to recreate the original composition of the room by cladding the lateral balconies dating from the 1980’s with large wood panels and designing all new furniture.

Careful consideration was given to the tone of the wood used, making it possible for the space to rediscover its initial colours.