Interplay of space and light in terracotta

Fabienne Bulle

The original buildings of the Anatole France school complex date from 1890. In 2009, the town launched a project to refurbish and extend the site. The façades of the new classrooms have been clad with a second skin of openwork terracotta bars in a contemporary style which is in harmony with the existing school and the adjoining blocks of apartments.

Fabienne Bulle, the architect of the project, explained:

“ The terracotta bricks are used here in a pattern with gaps, similar to a chequerboard. It’s a chequerboard that lets the light through and provides views, whilst controlling exposure to the sun and the effects of its heat on the building. Above all, it’s a chequerboard that projects lines of light onto the floors and walls. Playful and constantly moving, these lines are with the students throughout the day... The different shapes, sizes and arrangements of the various groups of baguettes give the façade a distinctive identity. The red-orange colour is very prominent. The warmth of the terracotta brings the façade to life in a kaleidoscope of brickwork. ”

ANATOLE FRANCE SCHOOL, Saint Denis, FR - Fabienne Bulle - Autan® from TERREAL range