Institut de recherche et de soins dédiés aux maladies génétiques de l’enfant

The building blends smoothly into the urban landscape in the image of an oasis of greenery. It is characterized by the superposition of the three programme components: the clinical centre, the research centre and the conference centre on the rooftop terrace. The tree is the common and symbolic link of ascent from the ground to the skies. It also illustrates the patient/physician/ researcher loop by translating the values of a child-centred project in terms of architectural design. The planning layouts, the materials and the treatment of the façades reflect the character of each unit. The entrance garden, thickly lined with medicinal plants and paved with slate, welcomes children and their families, as well as professionals, while preserving the permeability of the soil. The double height atrium, accommodating a garden conservatory planted with lemon, orange and olive trees, creates a soothing setting for the children before reaching the medical examination rooms, designed to look like huts. At the top of the “tree”, a polyhedral sculptural structure made of zinc acts as an organic overhang, becoming the institute’s unique symbol in the Parisian landscape. The glass and stone shell, whose silkscreen print was inspired by DNA sequencing and features pixelated plant motifs, is enlivened by loggia-type terraces and oversized oriel windows. This is a compact and versatile building that uses high-performance shell materials and renewable energies.