The rehabilitation and extension of the city hall aims to connect three very different buildings: one dating back to the 19th century and two others dating back to the 1970s. By adding a new reception structure and by improving the thermal performance and visual aspect of building envelopes, this project creates a new image of the city hall, in addition to a modern, open vision of administrative services.

The project’s different components all transmit a contemporary image of the city hall. The glass façades, stainless steel structure and mesh used for connecting elements have been designed as aspects of a new urban landmark that ensures the city is seen in a modern light.

The new public reception area is located in the lower level of the building so visitors can enjoy interactions on a more human scale. The idea is not to impress, but to welcome. However, this does not mean the architectural project cannot be distinctive or even unique, as befitting the representative nature of this kind of building.

To enhance the site’s different architectural entities, low volumes have been created to link existing buildings. A stainless steel mesh covers all connecting and transitional elements, and is used to protect the lower floor of the glass façade. 

The structure suspended between the two 1970s buildings is not just a passageway. It is also a transitional zone where indoor and outdoor meeting rooms, rest areas, waiting rooms and loggias can easily be transformed for private or public use. 

- Creating a stainless steel shell

The shell is like a carved object – a protective metal skin that is both strong and delicate. Made of stainless steel, its curved form creates an impression of softness, calling up images of work by the artist Anish Kapoor. 

The shell, which was designed in 3D, was made to measure for the project. It is suspended with pinpoint precision on steel tree structures and has no physical contact with the reception structure or the ground. 

Inside, perforations in the shell’s envelope filter the light entering the building while still allowing visitors to enjoy views of urban areas. Outside, the shell seems to float on the water that surrounds it. 

- Installing a double-skin façade

Special attention has been paid to using environmentally friendly techniques, including double-skin facades to trap pre-heated air and reduce the need for heating in winter and mid- season. Air enters a double-flow ventilation system with a heat exchanger. The system is managed using a building management system and temperature and sunlight sensors.

The new skin is composed of a “breathable” screen-printed glass façade with built-in venetian blinds. Two different patterns have been printed onto the glass: frosted rectangular shapes and shimmering squares. In this way, the façade changes to reflect the passing hours and seasons, adapting to different light conditions. 

- Enhancing façades

The façades of the Centre Social et Administratif (administrative and social centre) were originally built using prefabricated concrete slabs containing little thermal insulation.

Consequently, metal-look aluminium composite cladding with high-performance thermal insulation was installed on the façades of the building. The irregular layout and clearly marked joints combine with the colourful window recesses to create a uniquely customised façade.

Each window has an adjustable brise-soleil sunshade that can be used to deflect sunlight, especially in summer.

- Accessibility for all 

The term “disability” covers a wide range of situations, not just people with reduced mobility. The Atelier Filippini is very aware of this issue and constantly seeks to produce designs that incorporate elements making its buildings accessible to all. 

For the Illkirch-Graffenstaden city hall restructuration project, this led to a unique interior design developed in coordination with the contracting authority. Each floor and department features a different colour scheme to make it easier for visually impaired visitors to find their way around the building.