Located in the heart of La Defense, one of Europe's largest financial districts, Skylight is a housing project developed by Nexity Residential. For the first time since the 1980s, an all-residential building will rise along the neighbourhood's notorious 3.6-hectare pedestrian plaza. In total, more than 168 student housing units and 113 private residences will occupy the 18 floors of the metal-clad, 76 metre tower designed by Paris-based Louis Paillard Architectes.

Aerial view of Skylight, image courtesy of Louis Paillard Architectes

A series of pictures that the architect recently shared with SkyriseCities gives us an exclusive point of view of the building's interiors, as well as the metal cladding that will be used to cover the tower's facade. Starting with a bird's eye view of the triangular site where the building is currently under construction, the five levels already above ground give an idea of Skylight's massing and proportions. As additional concrete floor plates and walls are poured, the edifice is beginning to impose its presence on its surroundings.

Supporting columns at Skylight, image courtesy of Louis Paillard Architectes

At its base, the columns that will eventually support the northern side of the tower are also being formed. Once the development is complete, a dramatic archway will frame the entrance of the residence while sheltering parts of the new public space.

Interior space at Skylight, image courtesy of Louis Paillard Architectes

Moving to the inside of Skylight, the first rooms catering to students of the nearby Paris West University Nanterre La Défense are taking shape. As the windows are being installed, sealing up each space from the elements, wiring and dry wall installation is also proceeding. Occupying floors one through nine, these apartments will be topped by nine floors of private residences consisting of studios and one-bedroom units.

Detail of the metal cladding that will cover Skylight's facade, image courtesy of Louis Paillard Architectes

Nearby, a sample of the perforated metal panels that will be used to add a strong visual identity to Skylight have been installed for the public to see. Close-up pictures show the geometric patterns punctuating the metallic coating, including the arrangement and shape of each sections, designed to reflect the surrounding urban landscape.

Skylight under construction, image courtesy of Louis Paillard Architectes

The first residents are expected to move in by the third quarter of 2017. In the meantime, additional images and information about the project 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 — where more construction photos are available — or leave a comment at the bottom of this page.