GG Kirchner, a partner architect at Metaform, doesn’t really need any inspiration, but he closes his eyes, places his hands flat on the thick file we’re looking at and takes a deep breath: “Let’s get straight to the point. We’re talking here about a project that’s particularly close to my heart. Previous projects generated too much waste over long periods. Here, we’re embarking on something new…”

In what way can the Epernay project be regarded as an experimental or research initiative in the field of sustainable architecture?

GG Kirchner. —“Epernay is certainly a small project; indeed, it is best regarded as a case study or a research project. Given the expectations and objectives we had set ourselves, nothing was easy. From start to finish, this project took time to develop. This is because it stems from a specific approach—quite novel in its own right—but one that had to accommodate constraints that spanned a considerable period. We now work somewhat like a research department, seeking new ways of doing things and exploring new avenues. Epernay is a small project, but a very interesting one given all the opportunities it opens up.

Part case study, part research project, Epernay aims to be an innovative project. (Photo: Metaform)

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The Epernay project, located in the Gare district, is taller than it is wide and involves a number of constraints that need to be taken into account. (Photo: Metaform)

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What materials and techniques were chosen to reduce the building’s environmental impact?

“It’s worth noting that we had already made a start on certain initiatives, particularly with the Skypark project, where we tried to minimise waste as much as possible. Here, we have reused materials and tried to use others that can be recycled later. We had considered wood as the main material, but it wasn’t a viable option in this specific case due to various constraints, particularly fire safety requirements. We therefore turned to concrete. For the exterior materials, we ultimately opted for reclaimed materials, using bricks that had previously been used in Germany. For the interiors, we chose reused materials for the floors and acoustic elements made from recycled textiles. We managed to reuse over 70% of the materials in certain elements.”

From now on, our goal at Metaform is to go beyond simply reducing waste and to develop new, more responsible approaches.

GG Kirchner, partner architect, Metaform

How does the project manage to regulate the temperature without using a conventional heating or air-conditioning system?

“Since we have to use concrete, we also use it as a thermal mass to regulate the temperature. The result: no conventional heating and no air conditioning. The building uses intelligent natural ventilation. It maintains a temperature of between 24 and 26 degrees throughout the year. The windows open automatically to let in fresh air or cool the building at night. Users can also open them, and they close automatically after a short while.

What are the main challenges encountered in implementing this type of project, and how does it open up new prospects for the future of the construction industry?

“The project was difficult to simulate, particularly due to the challenges posed by the openings and airflow. It is not easy to win people over, mainly because of the cost and the fact that this type of construction does not fit into a standard category. The landscape and biodiversity also presented constraints, especially in urban areas where space is limited. However, the project works and demonstrates that it is possible to completely rethink the concept of sustainable building! From now on, our goal at Metaform is to go beyond simply reducing waste and to develop new, more responsible approaches, particularly for future generations. We cannot carry on like this: urgent action is needed.”