Paris-based architecture firm ChartierDalix Architects has transformed historic barracks into a university building in Paris, France. 

Named University of Law-Paris I, Modernisation of the Lourcine Barracks, Paris (13ᵉ), the old building, embedded in the landscape, includes a library, a lecture theatre, classrooms, offices scattered in basement levels under the parade ground.

The former Lourcine barracks are located in Paris’ 13th district and comprise a parade ground with accompanying military buildings erected in 1875. 

Image © Sergio Grazia

"The project aims to make the most of this Parisian heritage, taking a precision approach that will as far as possible retain the existing spaces and preserve the historic character of the site," said the office. 

Image © Sergio Grazia

ChartierDalix is seeking to adapt the project and its new activities to the buildings without erasing their past. 

The parade ground retains its central, unifying and symbolic role, as a landscaped forecourt sloping down to frame the new access to the gallery and lecture theatre. 

Image © Sergio Grazia

Lecture and classrooms are inserted into the existing buildings, making the most of their spatial qualities (ceiling heights, noble materials).

Image © Sergio Grazia

Image © Sergio Grazia

Image © Sergio Grazia

Image © Sergio Grazia

Image © Sergio Grazia

Image © Camille Gharbi

Project facts

Client: Epaurif

Tech. cons: Egis Bâtiment (gen. contracting), Elioth (Hqe), Acoustb (acoustics), DHpaysage, (landscaping), Grahal (heritage)

Area: 9,710 M2

Cost: €22 M bt

Delivery: in june 2019

Project: 500 seat lecture theater, 27 teaching rooms, 2,000 m² library, 1,500 m² offices and 2 service apartments

Prize: Jury Prize Frame Awards 2020

All images © Takuji Shimmura unless otherwise stated. 

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