Canal atelier d'architecture et design is a Paris-based architecture studio established in 1975 by Daniel Rubin and Patrick Rubin. The studio has grown to a regular team of 15 professionals, including architects, interior architects, and designers. Canal is known for directly managing its project work, while collaborating with external consultants on occasion.
Its history is marked by pioneering projects in renovation and adaptive reuse. Notable works include the transformation of the former Saint-Lazare hospital in Paris into facilities such as a nursery, social center, chapel, garden, and plans for a future library. In central Paris, Canal led the construction of the Jean-Pierre Melville Media Library and oversaw the restructuring of the Garage Béranger for the newspaper Libération. The atelier’s portfolio also features the extension of IRCAM at the Centre Georges Pompidou and the renovation of the Paribas offices.
Canal’s work on historic buildings is evident in the reconversion of Hôtel d'Avejan for the Centre National des Lettres, and the adaptation of the old Poulain chocolate factory in Blois into the National School of Nature and Landscape. Other major public projects include the mediathèque of Fontenay-aux-Roses and improvements to the Musée d'Art Moderne's safety standards.
The atelier’s scope covers public facilities, urban spaces, residential projects, and commercial concepts, such as the redesign of over 600 Lacoste boutiques worldwide. Canal’s approach emphasizes architectural transformation, adaptability, and detailed investigations into building reversibility.