© Maxime Delvaux
Together with numerous research institutes, technology concerns and university institutions, the Saclay “research cluster”, roughly 20 km south-west of the centre of Paris, is regarded as the Silicon Valley of France. With its 65,000 students and 9,000 scientists, the Paris-Saclay University is meant to generate new impulses. The social focus of the campus – which is still under construction – has already been implemented in accordance with plans by Muoto Architects.
Their new structure, which bears the name “Lieu de Vie” (seat of life) and which has a floor area of 4,000 m2, contains a cafeteria and canteen – also open to the staff of nearby firms – plus two fitness studios, administrative offices and changing rooms. On the roof, two basketball courts were created, enclosed within safety fences. The courts, it is planned, will be available around the clock, whereas the canteen and cafeteria have clearly defined opening hours. For that reason, access to the various realms is not via a common entrance hall but by way of a central open staircase.
Their new structure, which bears the name “Lieu de Vie” (seat of life) and which has a floor area of 4,000 m2, contains a cafeteria and canteen – also open to the staff of nearby firms – plus two fitness studios, administrative offices and changing rooms. On the roof, two basketball courts were created, enclosed within safety fences. The courts, it is planned, will be available around the clock, whereas the canteen and cafeteria have clearly defined opening hours. For that reason, access to the various realms is not via a common entrance hall but by way of a central open staircase.