Necker

The New Entrance

We have chosen to pierce the forecourt with a width of 24m by 6m to integrate a generously sized access device into a glass volume. This light and transparent volume highlights and enhances the entrance of a renowned international faculty. The immaterial volume respects the original layout and does not disrupt the monolithic perception of the whole, but rather stages it.

A Friendly Structure – The Base

From the reception, the visitor can grasp and understand the functional organization at a glance. The new entrance on the forecourt allows for a clear and readable reorganization of functions. The base hosts various functions: reception, the dining area, the main vertical circulations in the axis, the amphitheaters, the library. The convivial spaces are well-defined and open widely onto naturally lit patios.

The Library

Due to the space requirements of the library, a new position and orientation were necessary. The area adjacent to the former staff restaurant in the northern part of the building, on level -1, offers the best conditions for a new orientation of the library, thanks to its numerous connections with the outdoor space. As this area is relatively deep, the interior zones are illuminated by a glass cube that boldly pierces the ceiling in a formal vocabulary similar to that of the new entrance.

The Laboratories: A Modular Design / Specific Responses

"Propose maximum modularity while meeting the specific needs of each." To meet this requirement, we have adopted the principle of structured and systematized frameworks and envelopes, which leave open a maximum of possibilities. A clear, readable, and functional system ensures the longevity, efficiency, and modularity of the building. Regardless of the evolution of practices, the support to meet them remains stable and reliable. The laboratories are organized into basic modules on a 3.65 m grid. Along the circulation, a grid system for distributing secondary fluids cleverly paces the doors on a laboratory organization step, taking into account the widths of the workbenches. This modular design meets the majority of installation cases. In this sense, André Wogensky was a pioneer, and his design still allows for many adaptations today. The organizational principles are preserved. Only the central core is brought up to standard through heavy and structural rehabilitation.

A Reconstructed Main Façade

Previously, the façade was blind, but its design, composed of white enamel panels, gave it a striking presence. To respect the original idea, we simply pierced the gable on the original grid and composed a set of glass panels predominantly white, more or less opaline, ranging from transparent to opaque. This maintains the massive appearance but in a much more playful manner through the random arrangement of the elements. From the inside, this skin will bring natural light to the workspaces while providing an extraordinary view of the outside.

Signage

Beyond any functional considerations, our approach has been to create signage that conveys an identity specific to the site's issues, in harmony with the architectural choices, both past and present. We have therefore focused on designing strong institutional signage to form a unit that becomes purely aesthetic, contributing to the enhancement and unique expression of the site.

Our approach has taken into account the strong presence of users, visitors, students, administrative staff, and researchers. Informative, reassuring, friendly, and rewarding, the signage of the Necker building aims above all to express the internal organization of the place, always acting as a guide and guarantor of its uses.