In Strasbourg, France, the Public Real Estate Heritage Department recently unveiled two new projects at the University of Strasbourg: La Manufacture de Tabacs, a former tobacco factory built in 1849 converted into a major space with various facilities, and the renovated "Le Patio", a department building named after the tree-lined garden that it encloses.
The architecture firm Vurpas Architectes won the competition to design both projects. The strategy and approach for each building was different, but they do share a critical need: acoustic comfort to maximise student and staff well-being. To integrate high-performing noise control, a mix of Rockfon ceiling solutions were installed by STAM Acoustique across Le Patio's different spaces, including the classrooms, amphitheatre, and circulation spaces.
Le Patio Renovation by Vurpas Architectes
First designed in the 1960s by Strasbourg architect Pierre Vivien, Le Patio is characterised by a monumental, ovoid-shaped black marble volume at the entrance lobby – its "Aula" – which serves as an amphitheatre. Over time, both the building and the Aula have become landmarks and vivacious nerve centres for the university.
Le Patio houses the Humanities department of the University of Strasbourg. As part of their interior work, Vurpas Architectes introduced a 146-seat cafeteria, classrooms, a rehearsal room, and more. They also redeveloped the amphitheatre for better management of traffic flows. The primary challenge for the firm in renovating the Patio was finding solutions adapted to each space and the pre-existing building, while ensuring flexibility throughout.
Acoustic Solutions for the University Renovation
As part of their comprehensive plan for Le Patio, Vurpas Architectes placed significant attention on the environmental quality all interior spaces. Along with thermal consideration, this included acoustics – which needed to be optimised, especially with the introduction of new spaces. The right acoustic ceilings needed to stand the test of time.
“The notion of durability of materials or equipment has become essential in any renovation process, particularly in educational spaces, so that they can adapt and last over time”, explains Vurpas architect Paul Charton.
In the cafeteria, the monolithic solution Rockfon Mono Acoustic in the white colour was chosen for its smooth, continuous surface and ability to reflect over 87 percent of daylight, reducing the need for artificial sources of lighting.
To improve the acoustics of the circulation areas as well as classroom acoustics, Rockfon Eclipse acoustic ceiling islands were installed in large dimensions. Beyond their acoustic performance, the islands lend a distinctive character to the spaces when combined with the LED lighting fixtures.
Finally, in the lobby and the Aula, Rockfon Ekla ceiling tiles with the E edge were installed so that the reverberation of the numerous hard surfaces on-site becomes limited, making it a truly welcoming place that is conducive to informal meetings. The columns emerge distinctively from the tiles, establishing a sleek look in this central space. Note: Rockfon Ekla is equivalent to Rockfon Tropic in the UK.
“It’s crucial to establish a calm and serene environment for teachers, researchers, and students to study under optimal conditions. Working closely with the acoustics, we set specific objectives, and today, we’re pleased to say that we have successfully achieved them”, says Florian Wieber of the Public Real Estate Heritage Department of Strasbourg.
