LE SYNCHROTON Grenoble (France) - 2013

Contexte & enjeux

The Synchrotron extension project is based on two main issues: a functional issue and a formal issue.
Functional, because the Synchrotron is first and foremost an extraordinary tool for the scientists who use it, of which there are only two other equivalents in the world.
Formal, because beyond the satisfaction that these users will derive from the fact that this tool is harmonious and pleasant to live in, it is also a building that fits very strongly into the city’s great landscape.
Formal because, beyond the satisfaction that its users will derive from the fact that this tool is harmonious and pleasant to live in, it is also a building that fits very strongly into the great landscape of the city of Grenoble, where the notion of a “fifth façade” takes on a particular relevance because of the reality of the aerial views afforded by the mountains.
The building, as it appears today, is of great simplicity: a gigantic ring pierced by an axis on which the annexed volumes are scattered. It seems essential to us to preserve this simplicity while respecting the integrity of the original project.

Photographs : Stéphane Rambaud