Polytechnique Signage

Saclay

Architects :
Sou Fujimoto Architects, DREAM, OXO, Nicolas Laisné Architectes
Photo :
Jean-Baptiste Thiriet
Date :
2023
Info

The building, located in the development area of the École Polytechnique in Saclay, houses educational programs shared between several prestigious institutions. Designed by Sou Fujimoto, this 10,000 m² structure blends seamlessly with the nature of the neighboring park. To instinctively identify the different spaces and orient the main flows, we designed three mobiles distributed along the building’s three main axes. They are composed of a cable onto which branches of thermo-lacquered metal tubing are attached. These arborescences poetically indicate the program on each floor. A clever design of counterweights ensures balance. Continuing with this minimalist approach, we used the ITC Avant Garde Gothic typeface with four weights, which thickens as we ascend through the spaces. A custom family of pictograms was designed based on the sans-serif typeface, following the same gradation scheme. Minimal and poetic, our signage integrates seamlessly into the building, bathed in sunlight and offering surprising views. This open space, an architectural and academic symbol, becomes a living area where activities unfold beneath a wide, transparent facade facing west.

Polytechnique Signage

Saclay

Architects :
Sou Fujimoto Architects, DREAM, OXO, Nicolas Laisné Architectes
Photo :
Jean-Baptiste Thiriet
Date :
2023
info

The building, located in the development area of the École Polytechnique in Saclay, houses educational programs shared between several prestigious institutions. Designed by Sou Fujimoto, this 10,000 m² structure blends seamlessly with the nature of the neighboring park. To instinctively identify the different spaces and orient the main flows, we designed three mobiles distributed along the building’s three main axes. They are composed of a cable onto which branches of thermo-lacquered metal tubing are attached. These arborescences poetically indicate the program on each floor. A clever design of counterweights ensures balance. Continuing with this minimalist approach, we used the ITC Avant Garde Gothic typeface with four weights, which thickens as we ascend through the spaces. A custom family of pictograms was designed based on the sans-serif typeface, following the same gradation scheme. Minimal and poetic, our signage integrates seamlessly into the building, bathed in sunlight and offering surprising views. This open space, an architectural and academic symbol, becomes a living area where activities unfold beneath a wide, transparent facade facing west.

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