Preserving Heritage and Critiquing 20th-Century Design

In the heart of Antony, France, MARS Architectes has undertaken a transformative renovation of the Anne Frank Middle School. With an area of 7572 m², this project, scheduled for completion in 2023, is a contextual update of twentieth-century heritage. Lead architects Sylvain Rety, Julien Broussart, and Raphael Renard spearhead this endeavor, aiming to not only respect the tangible heritage but also revive the critical function of the original 1980 project.

A Manifesto Revisited

The 1980 project served as a manifesto, challenging the design norms prevalent in the 70s and 80s, particularly the generic “Pailleron” type colleges. Beyond its tangible heritage, the critical function embedded in its design is considered an intangible heritage of equal importance. To honor this critical function, the rehabilitation takes a unique approach, aiming to reactivate the project’s initial purpose using architecture as a medium.

Reimagining Thermal Renovation

The rehabilitation project addresses the consequences of widespread thermal renovations on twentieth-century heritage. The prevalent use of off-the-shelf solutions and a lack of diversity in available options risk erasing the identity of renovated buildings. The Anne Frank Middle School Renovation introduces a distinctive approach to thermal renovation, closely tied to its original purpose.

Embracing Evolution and Identity

The project delves into the relationship between successive layers added over time to meet evolving needs. It advocates for accepting the evolution of the initial project’s identity, ensuring that the architecture remains in harmony with contemporary demands while maintaining its unique character. This dynamic evolution not only preserves the project’s identity but also ensures its relevance and continued impact.

Contextual Renovation and Time

Described as “contextual renovation,” the approach considers the subject’s environment, material constraints, and the era in which it exists. Recognizing the era as a contextual factor of prime importance, the renovation aims to harmonize with the evolving needs and challenges of the present.

Restoring Lost Character

Pragmatically, the renovation process involves researching and rediscovering the original spirit of the project, which may have been distorted over time. Understanding the subject is crucial for restoring its lost or endangered character, allowing it to evolve dynamically while staying true to its essence.

Unveiling a Singular Aesthetic

The new thermal skin of the Anne Frank Middle School is a repetition of a single, industrial, raw, hyper-symmetrical element. This aesthetic, while technical and austere, aligns with the project’s initial purpose of critiquing generic architecture. The superimposition of eras is evident, yet the spirit remains in perpetual motion.

In conclusion, the Anne Frank Middle School Renovation not only preserves the tangible and intangible heritage of the original project but also breathes new life into its critical function. MARS Architectes, through innovative design and contextual sensitivity, ensures that the spirit of the school continues to resonate through time.