3.5K 
An influx of capital from the United Arab Emirates will result in a gleaming new office tower set for Paris' Courbevoie commune. In addition to the building of the tower itself, Abu Dhabi Investment Authority is partnering with the La Défense Public Development Agency (Epadesa) to improve and create links between La Défense and Courbevoie.
The 38-storey Tour Alto will rise on the site of an existing office complex and feature a distinctive bell-shaped design by IF Architectes. To top out at 150 metres, the building's flared crown, relatively small footprint and glassy facade look to complement the modern office towers of the area. A retail unit and 2,000-square-metre forecourt add an appreciated public component to the project. Construction work on the tower and surrounding public spaces are just beginning, with completion expected by 2020.
Epadesa has embarked on revitalizing and modernizing facilities along North Circular Boulevard in La Defense for seven years. By creating new links and better connectivity between the business district and its neighbouring areas, recently completed skyscrapers like Tour Carpe Diem and Tour D2 have benefitted from increased accessibility and ease of movement.
Investment from wealthy Persian Gulf companies isn't a new phenomenon in Europe. The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority has purchased several properties in Lyon and Paris while similar conglomerates establish their presence in other European markets like London. Investing in commercial and residential real estate in major European cities is a reasonably safe venture, as prices remain at elevated levels even throughout times of economic crisis.
Additional images and information can be found in the Database file linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion or share your photos? Check out the associated Forum thread or leave a comment at the bottom of this page.
