Ecole nationale supérieurs d’arts et métiers, Halles technologiques

The École Nationale Supérieure d’Arts et Métiers — ENSAM — opened in Paris in 1912. Over the course of the 20th century, the building underwent multiple transformations. In 2006, three industrial halls dedicated to research and experimentation were restructured. Beyond reinforcing the prestige of this French engineering school, the educational architect restores the halls’ industrial character while introducing specialized and innovative laboratories connected to shared spaces for exchange and collaboration.

Beyond the heritage building renovation of the historic halls, the educational architect implements a flexible spatial system adapted to “ongoing research in motion”. The aim is to clarify the identity of ENSAM’s two laboratories, each housed within a hall designed according to a shared architectural framework. A central circulation spine of walkways structures the scheme, with functional “laboratory volumes” inserted within the main spaces while maintaining natural zenithal lighting. At ground level, the adaptive reuse architect defines experimental space by programme requirements; at upper levels, each lab includes meeting rooms and open platforms for exchange and exhibition.

Certain walkways are widened to accommodate informal lounges and reproduction areas. In the lateral wings, the adaptive reuse architect creates highly reconfigurable spaces using modular partitions and exposed service networks, enabling flexible adaptation. Social areas such as cafeterias and lounges are integrated to encourage interaction and a sense of community.

The educational architect strengthened and densified the relationship of Hall 1 and Hall 2 through an extension which aligns the building with the street edge. A new façade is introduced, continuing the rhythmic perforation principles of the existing halls. Executed in stapled brick in a three-tone polychrome palette. The heritage building renovation asserts a contemporary identity to the façade, while paying homage to ENSAM’s original industrial architecture.