Innovative school project on the former barracks site in Les Vernets
The construction of a new school on the site of the former barracks of Les Vernets marks a significant step in the transformation of this neighbourhood. The project, which is part of the PAV project, aims to create almost 1,500 homes and build high-quality public facilities to promote social cohesion.
Construction work has begun on the school complex, which will play a central role in the social fabric of the emerging residential neighbourhood. The “Emile” project by the renowned architecture firm Liechti Graf Zumsteg (Aargau) was selected as the winner of the 2019 architecture competition. The innovative design of the school building, which presents itself as an open and inviting space, will aim to create an atmosphere of sharing and community.
The building will not only function as a school, but also as a public facility open to the entire community. It will provide spaces for various activities such as canteen, play and sports facilities, which will be accessible via galleries and passages on the transparently designed ground floor.
The centrepiece of the school building will be on the first floor, where classrooms will be arranged around a spacious central room that will provide space for additional learning activities. The architecture of the building will be characterised by gabled roofs equipped with photovoltaic panels to meet the school’s energy needs and improve climate comfort.
The importance of this project for the development of the neighbourhood is emphasised by Frédérique Perler, Head of the Department of Spatial Planning, Construction and Mobility, and Christina Kitsos, Vice-President of the Board of Directors, who stress the importance of social cohesion and community development.
The outdoor areas of the school will be carefully designed to provide pleasant and functional spaces for students and the community. The schoolyard will be organised by existing trees and complemented by new planting, while wide avenues and green spaces will create a welcoming environment.