WATA - World Architecture Technal Awards Edition 2019 | Page 10

AWARD TEACHING AND CULTURE
School Campus L’impernal, Luzech,
France
Architect Agency
LCR Architectes
Associate
Sol & Cité
Owner
Conseil Départemental du Lot
Technal Metal Builder
Realco
The Lot valley has perpetuated, since the 13th century,
constructive principles based on the values of the territory and
common sense: the play of terraces linked to topography and
simple, compact architecture, using local and raw materials.
This approach naturally inspired the design of the Hall of
residence Impernal in Luzech, which includes a secondary
school with 450 students that can be extended to 600, a school
group with 240 students, a shared restaurant and three staff
quarters. The land has a slope of 122 to 99 m in its West/East
orientation. “Sculpted it into three terraces, structured by a
large stone and wooden walls,” the work of adapting the steep
gradient, combined with GEODE curtain walls and SOLEAL doors
and windows, allows views of the large landscape environment
at each level.
Thin, straight and elegant, the aluminum profiles of GEODE
and SOLEAL blend into the building envelope. The glazing is
maximized for generous natural lighting, bringing light to the
various functions of the Hall of residence:
-The two levels are punctuated by patios for total transparency.
These patios, which are natural, bright and intermingling to the
building, are offering a look at the inner operations and at the
permanent link with the environment.
- The classrooms are all facing North and South. SOLEAL
frames designed from floor to ceiling are integrating edge-to-
edge glazing. On the south side, the sun protection is reinforced
by passive glazing.
-The dining rooms are oriented to the south-east accessible
from the square, allowing to have lunch while enjoying the views
of Luzech. A real break before resuming afternoon classes.
The architects’ choice was based on environmentally friendly
materials, working with local companies with recognized
expertise. For example, the Realco metal builder manufactured
all the TECHNAL aluminium joineries. Wood was used for the
frames and clothing on the first level, limestone for the gabion
and cladding supports on the ground floor and concrete to
complete the work. Wood, limestone and concrete are combined
with sandblasted grey aluminium and glass from TECHNAL
joineries. Few materials were used to create a sober, simple
project and an ‘’ethnic’’ link with the place. The green roofs
complete the insertion into the site and improve thermal
comfort.
14