Toulouse School of Economics
200best ES
Grafton Architects
2019
Type
University
Tags
learning environments, brick, spaces for youngsters, university campus , 200Best, dealing with the urban fabric
Visitability
Allowed
Description
Located on the banks of the Garonne river, on the edge of the historic city, the Toulouse School of Economics (TSE) building marks the threshold between different urban fabrics in Toulouse. With a star-shaped floor plan that preserves the city’s image, the project reinterprets various historical elements in Toulouse, such as cloisters, courtyards, hiding places, ramparts and buttresses. The spatial experience is composed of internal connecting spaces that expand and contract. The play of light and shadow produced in these spaces evokes sensations in the users that are linked to their historical references, but also to the connecting spaces of modern architecture, especially those of the Smithsons. The offices are located in the arms of the building, with spans of up to 10.8 m, the orientation of which has been carefully designed to ensure optimal natural lighting and ventilation of the interior spaces. The seminar and conference rooms are arranged around the perimeter, creating a climatic filter and a transition between the public and private areas of the site.