École du Censuy

Location
Renens, Switzerland

Size
110,000 square feet

Status
2011
Located on a site already considered the “hub of activity” in Renens, the open space of the new school and gym becomes as critical as the built space.
Multi-directional circulation and flexible activity space preserve the open site and create new links across it. In order to multiply the current gathering spaces, the new buildings are strategically located to respond to necessary programmatic relationships and initiate new park spaces in between for both student and public use. Located at different levels on the site, each park takes on a specific identity. Additionally, the existing site allows for constant and multi-directional circulation and flexible activity space. In an effort to preserve this, while also solving the programmatic needs of the proposed project, MA has developed an “open” site solution that both maintains and develops new pathways. Interior paths link the new school and gym through an underground connection on level with the existing school and lower plazas. This link provides covered access on a single level between all programs while not disturbing exterior circulation.
Paths through the school also connect interior circulation to upper and lower plazas and adjacent public park spaces. Exterior paths of both softscape and hardscape connect all outdoor programs and maintain open circulation throughout the site for both students and the public.






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