Lacaton & Vassal's Nantes Architecture School: A Manual for Flexible Design
An exhibition featuring architects Anne Lacaton (born 1954) and Jean-Philippe Vassal (born 1955) is currently on display at the Cité de l'architecture in Paris, running until March 15, 2009. Showcased through thirty-six large screens, the duo, who received the 2008 Grand Prix national d'architecture, is recognized for significant works such as the Palais de Tokyo renovation (2001) and Maison Latapie (1993). The exhibition emphasizes their development and notable projects, including the Immeuble-Villas completed in 2006 near Poitiers. Their most recent endeavor, a new school of architecture on the Île de Nantes, is designed to accommodate 900 students and includes abundant natural light, sweeping views, and a library that spans 960 m². Architecture critic Sophie Trelcat describes it as a comprehensive manual for architecture.
Key facts
- Exhibition at Cité de l'architecture, Paris, until March 15, 2009
- Features 36 giant screens showing works by Anne Lacaton and Jean-Philippe Vassal
- Duo won 2008 Grand Prix national d'architecture
- Known for Palais de Tokyo renovation (2001) and Maison Latapie (1993)
- Exhibition organized around seven themes: economy, climate, usage
- New Nantes architecture school on Île de Nantes completed in 2009
- Budget €18 million, program 8,000 m², built 26,000 m² total
- Flexible system with primary concrete structure and secondary metal frames
- Each student gets a workspace, locker, and badge access
- Library expanded from 600 m² to 960 m²
Entities
Artists
- Anne Lacaton
- Jean-Philippe Vassal
- Sophie Trelcat
Institutions
- Cité de l'architecture
- Palais de Tokyo
- Grand Prix national d'architecture
- École d'architecture de Nantes
Locations
- Paris
- France
- Nantes
- Île de Nantes
- Floirac
- Poitiers
- Loire
Sources
- artpress —