Centre scolaire Vernayaz
General concept. Like the infinite echo that resounds beyond the mountains, a pavilion module multiplies across the surroundings. Seeking unity within the perimeter made available — a vast, heterogeneous and fragmented expanse — the project brings together, through the contribution of a repetitive element, different worlds and generations and creates a common identity within this diversity.
Its repetition becomes the rule, perceived as a common language that intensifies the sense of belonging to one and the same system. This norm in the service of each allows the expression of the collective interest through the interaction of the different functions and generations. The increased modularity of the proposed system makes it possible, through superimposition and/or juxtaposition, to house multiple functions while retaining flexibility for any later modifications regarding the use and layout of the space. Moreover, the independence of the various units facilitates phased construction.
Siting – Distribution – Organisation.
- gymnasium position: beneficial proximity to the existing school, shared entrance situation, dual use of the existing playground, connection via the base
- sports hall slightly sunk, matching the finished basement level of the existing school, reducing the building's impact on its surroundings
- functions and services articulated around the sports hall, a balcony acting as a crown-shaped raised stand around the hall, refreshment bar and entrance in direct relation with the hall
- clear definition of the more contained schoolyard, festival ground (marquee)
- crèche/day-school/clubs: mixed programme, opening onto the schoolyard by removing the playground that originally linked the old school with the now redundant old sports hall => courtyard = meeting place for all generations
- SEIC premises: single-storey module linked at basement level to the old Grand Hôtel for the first phase; superimposition of this same module over two floors, also linked at basement level to the old Grand Hôtel, for the second phase
- football premises: buffer space between the two pitches (match and training pitches), dual orientation of the building, which can be used as a stand, changing room and refreshment bar for both pitches
Construction system and materiality.
- structural system: concrete column/beam/slab frame, reduced to the pure load-bearing structure in the form of simple geometric elements
- seismic bracing: ensured by concrete walls in the corners + use of the service cores and lift shafts
- open plan: lightweight interior partitions can be arranged at the users' discretion; a freedom that allows the functions to dictate the plan of their premises
- façade layout independent of the load-bearing structure
- interior materiality: lightweight partitions at the users' discretion (glass / plaster / wood) + exposed concrete for the primary structure + micro-perforated timber panels for the acoustic elements
- green roof: gives the site a bucolic character
Energy concept.
- rational compact form of the modules and simplified typology make it possible to optimise energy performance
- large glazed surfaces allow considerable passive solar gain in winter; solar protection in micro-perforated fabric on guide rails (wind resistance) on the façades most exposed to the sun in summer
- homogeneous natural lighting of the spaces makes it possible to considerably reduce the consumption of artificial light
- concrete / perimeter insulation / thermal insulating glass make it possible to meet the Minergie standard effectively
- concrete = local material, using the aggregates of the Rhône and the Dranse
- inertia of the building optimised by a system of activated slabs
- use of groundwater (relatively high in Vernayaz) via a water-to-water heat pump allowing, in summer, a cooling of the activated slabs and the gentle ventilation
- optimal integration of the services in the suspended ceiling, taking advantage of the structural depth of the concrete beams