The core idea of the Unisère Campus project is to create a strong connection between two distinct sites—Villefontaine and Chimilin—by unifying them through shared values of sustainability, flexibility, and local identity. Rather than treating them as separate entities, the design concept weaves a common architectural and philosophical language across both locations. In Villefontaine, a new campus is designed as a dynamic space for education, innovation, and collaboration. It is structured around a central axis that links various functional zones, encouraging interaction and movement. Modular timber construction enables flexibility and minimizes environmental impact. In Chimilin, the idea centers on transformation through preservation. An old village school is adapted into a multifunctional public building while maintaining its historical character. Traditional elements like wooden shutters are reinterpreted to serve modern needs, blending past and present. Together, the two sites form a complementary whole—one looking forward with new development, the other honoring the past through thoughtful renovation. The project’s idea is not only about building spaces, but also about fostering community, supporting local culture, and creating sustainable environments for future generations.

The Unisère Campus project in Nord Isère, France, connects a new campus in Villefontaine with the transformation of a historic school in Chimilin. The project blends contemporary architecture with local tradition, using sustainable construction methods and natural materials. In Villefontaine, modular timber structures create flexible coworking, educational, and public spaces along a central urban axis. In Chimilin, the renovation respects the building’s heritage, integrating modern façade shading inspired by traditional shutters. Both sites promote community, adaptability, and environmental performance, forming a cohesive campus rooted in local identity.

The project in Villefontaine, France, presents a low-energy campus ensemble composed of a coworking center and a residential building. Both structures are designed using a modular system based on cross-laminated timber (CLT) construction with a unified 4.2 × 4.2 m grid. The CLT panels—used for walls, floors, and roofing—enable efficient prefabrication and sustainable, high-quality timber architecture. Foundations consist of reinforced concrete raft slabs (250–500 mm thick), adapted to the sloping terrain and local ground conditions. Both buildings reach a maximum height of 8.2 m, have two floors above ground, and offer barrier-free access.

The coworking facility accommodates creative, academic, and collaborative functions, including labs and workshops, while the residential building provides short-term accommodation for up to 64 students and educators in a mix of private and shared rooms. Interiors prioritize acoustic comfort, natural daylight, and flexible use, with sliding panels and adaptive layouts. Energy needs are met by heat pumps and photovoltaic systems, with green roofs and rainwater management enhancing site ecology. The architecture draws from regional vocabulary—wooden shutters, simple geometries—to create a sensitive, warm, and community-centered environment.