Jacques Gilbert-Collet Nursery School Refurbishment by croixmariebourdon architectes associés
Sustainable refurbishment of Jacques Gilbert-Collet Nursery School in France, enhancing thermal comfort, bioclimatic design, and architectural heritage preservation.
Revitalizing Educational Architecture with Sustainable and Bioclimatic Design in France
The Jacques Gilbert-Collet Nursery School, originally designed in 1990 by ETRA architecture under Philippe Maillard, has undergone a transformative refurbishment led by croixmariebourdon architectes associés. Located in France, this innovative renovation project revitalizes an iconic piece of educational architecture while addressing modern energy efficiency and thermal comfort standards.
Preserving Architectural Heritage While Enhancing Performance
The original design of the nursery school was rooted in a sensory architectural approach, focusing on a child's relationship with the four elements—earth, water, air, and fire. However, three decades later, the building faced challenges related to thermal discomfort and energy inefficiency due to its complex structure and large, unsheltered glass surfaces.
The refurbishment aimed to preserve the school's architectural integrity while improving its functionality and environmental performance. By implementing a bioclimatic strategy, the architects sought to enhance the building's thermal comfort and reduce energy consumption.
Key Design Strategies and Materials
1. Reshaping the Building Envelope
The refurbishment introduced a new building envelope designed to optimize insulation and passive solar protection. Key elements included:
- Installation of 14 cm rock wool insulation on the external walls.
- Application of perforated metal cladding that harmonizes with the existing zinc roof.
- Replacement of external joinery with grey powder-coated aluminum frames featuring solar-controlled glazing.
2. Introducing a Functional Gallery
A standout feature of the renovation is the addition of a unifying gallery. This indoor-outdoor transitional corridor connects the building's wings and serves multiple functions:
- Provides shade and weather protection.
- Enhances circulation between classrooms, activity rooms, and reception areas.
- Features a warm lower section clad in golden European larch planks and a bright metal roof reflecting the sky.
3. Passive Solar Shading Solutions
The project addressed excessive heat gain through the extensive glass surfaces by:
- Resizing and protecting openings.
- Integrating passive sun protection elements.
- Installing a light colonnade in white steel to support the gallery and enhance visual appeal.
Emphasis on Sustainability and Circular Construction
The architects integrated ecological principles into the refurbishment, promoting resource efficiency and reducing environmental impact:
- Reuse of existing materials such as paving stones and plants for landscaping.
- Repurposing timber from a felled tree to create outdoor furniture and play structures.
- Enhancing the outdoor environment with additional greenery to foster a refreshing, nature-infused learning atmosphere.
Collaborative Design Approach
The success of the project was rooted in comprehensive diagnostics and active user engagement. Interviews with school staff helped identify key pain points and guided the development of practical design solutions tailored to their needs.
Project Details
- Architects: croixmariebourdon architectes associés
- Lead Architects: Thomas Bourdon, Nicolas Croixmarie
- Area: 1678 m²
- Location: France
- Completion Year: 2022
- Photographers: Takuji Shimmura, Alex Bonnemaison
- Manufacturers: Bernard Bois, Briand Menuiserie, F.B.I. - France Bâtiment Industrie, SERBACO, Saint-Gobain Placo, VTMTP
Positive Impact and User Feedback
Since its reopening in the summer of 2022, the refurbished nursery school has garnered positive feedback from both staff and students. Notable improvements include:
- Enhanced thermal comfort throughout all seasons.
- Reduced energy consumption.
- Reinforced connection between the built environment and nature.
The Jacques Gilbert-Collet Nursery School refurbishment exemplifies how contemporary educational architecture can merge sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic sensitivity. Through careful preservation, innovative bioclimatic design, and a commitment to ecological responsibility, croixmariebourdon architects associés have redefined the future of learning environments in France.
All Photographs are works of Takuji Shimmura , Alex Bonnemaison
