University of Lausanne

The extension project of the faculties of Geosciences & Environment (GSE) and of the Social & Political Sciences (SSP) at the University of Lausanne necessitates an expansion of the campus grounds beyond the current boundaries. Apart from the timing, technical and energy-related constraints listed in the tender specifications the project manager wants the work performed along the principles of a durable development in terms of general economy of the means employed, i.e. spatially, energy-related, materially and constructively. It means using intelligence rather than just materials, substituting gray matter for “gray” energy.

The GSE-SSP combination thus constitutes a compact package. The result of a spatial, manifold structure which, snake-like, coils back on itself, this new complex seeks to reduce its demand for land and the linear development of façades.

Given the proximity of the highway one particular concern is protection from noise. The placement of the bulk of the building, the selection of the various locales and the make-up of the outer walls are simple solutions meeting that major requirement. Providing the outer walls with sound-absorbing and thermally insulating sheathing allows the occupant to individually control his own interior climate.

Reinterpreting the structure of the part of the building to be renovated, all the static areas of the extension will likewise remain cost-effective and economical. The structure will be an open, flexible facility, permitting the planning of a reorganization of internal spaces, or a complete reconversion for a new purpose. In terms of construction, all assemblies are of a reversible design, facilitating access, replacement and the recycling of the elements. As much as the technical installations and energy consumption are minimized, with renewable energy largely contributing (lake water, photovoltaics), the project will also maximize natural lighting in all locations. Finally, careful selection of the building materials based on an optimal life cycle will contain the cost and the use of gray (fossil) energy associated with the construction.

Integrating this complex multitude of requirements  into one all-encompassing coherent set has necessitated a new multidisciplinary approach, a beneficial synergy for an optimal result.

The simplicity of the energy systems employed will permit simple operation of the installations with less maintenance. Using environmentally friendly building materials involving low gray-energy consumption will make it possible to attain the Minergie-Eco (energy star) label. On the energy side that means the Minergie label which will be secured.