Simple forms and natural raw materials are the hallmark of the design of the Lycée Technique which have been complemented by the use of high performance aluminium curtain walling and windows from Sapa Buidling Systems.

The Lycée Technique houses 1,300 students in 31,000 metre squares split into five blocks. Each four storey unit is 275 metres in length and 21 metres wide. This layout gives ample opportunity for the large expanses of fenstration to let light flood into common area and corridors.

The buildings' traditional concrete colums and calling contrast sharply with the long runs of glazing on all floors. High specification sealed units were used to achieve a low U-Value and the resulting thermal performance coupled to the inherent long life and low maintenance made aluminium the natural choice for the doors and windows.

The upper storey windows were fitted with remotely operated sunblinds to minimise solar gain. In total, over 6,300 metre squares of windows and curtain walling were installed on this project.

The Educational Specialist

Elegance 52 curtain walling is just one part of the extensive suite of systems available from Sapa Building Systems.

Elegance 52 is ideally suited to the educational sector with slim profiles that let in more light, material strength for multi-storey spans and the durability to withstand the rigours of this environment.

From primary schools to universities, our experience and the deisgn capabiliity ofered by Sapa's systems ensures the optimim solution for everything from new buildings through to Victorian refurbishments and projects in conservation areas.

With systems designed specifically for this sector, the low maintenance features will pass the most stringent examination and are supported by a highly experienced team who have really done their homework on the specific needs of education buildings.

Technical Considerations

A fixing system was devised for mounting the modular window elements thereby allowing serial production of the simple frames. The windows are fitted wtih metal sunblinds on the outside which are mounted in a concealed position behind an elegant glass construction and fixed to the curtain wall with steel brackets.

Although the glass surfance areas of the curtain wall are at least 3 metres wide by 2 metres high, a design was created without steel supports which could meet the high static demands whilst still allowing sufficient strength to cope with the weight of the windwos, in addition to the wind pressures.