Limoges

The Gérard Philippe school complex is part of a comprehensive urban development master plan for the city of Limoges, aimed at renovating two school buildings. Currently operating at 40% of its capacity, the building plans to accommodate students from neighboring schools in order to provide spaces adapted to the current needs of all children in the neighborhood and their families.

Built in the 1970s, the existing building has several weaknesses, including an aging, monotonous, and rather repetitive façade. Among the problems identified are a lack of light in the classrooms, insufficient natural ventilation, and uninviting, asphalt-covered outdoor courtyards. Although the building is open to the outside, its relationship with the surrounding vegetation could be rethought. The option of an extension was quickly ruled out, as its current capacity is already sufficient. Given the findings on the building's potential, we decided to keep it and work on its envelope. This is therefore a redevelopment project, aimed at creating a new façade for an innovative school. Specific interventions will not only improve the comfort, flow, and versatility of the educational facility, but also achieve a high level of energy performance by using low-emission materials. The project will also propose a facility that promotes visual and functional relationships with its green surroundings.

The volume of the existing building has been revisited in our proposal in order to add richness and provide spatial landmarks to a very rational school complex. A white brick base around the perimeter of the ground floor brings all the different areas together, extending across the entire building. We chose to prioritize the use of white brick for the façade because of its aesthetic qualities and durability. It offers exceptional resistance to weather and time, ensuring a noble and durable façade that retains its elegant appearance over the years. This materiality gives the building a distinctive and modern character while providing robust protection against the elements.