Building for life, building for learning

The Pian-Médoc middle school – a 6-building middle school in southwestern France with a capacity of 800 students – opened in 2022 and stands out as a successful example of energy transition and environmental commitment.

Right from the design stage, the Pian-Médoc middle school demonstrates an ecological approach. Bouygues Bâtiment centre sud-ouest teams used cutting-edge technologies and materials to minimise the building’s carbon footprint whilst maximising its energy efficiency. A range of solutions incorporated into the project, such as reinforced thermal insulation, the use of recycled materials and optimised energy management, ensured optimum environmental performance and provided students with the best possible learning conditions.

One of the most noteworthy aspects of this project is the fact that 14 large pine trees from the former woodland were kept in the school playground, highlighting the importance of protecting the local ecosystem. Wood from trees that were removed was used for cladding and for school furniture. In fact, an impressive 80% of the wood on site was used in this project. The way in which the school blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings reflects the school’s desire to create an inspiring, environmentally-friendly milieu for its students.

The school is also remarkably energy-efficient, making effective use of solar panels and state-of-the-art thermal insulation to reduce its energy consumption. This sustainable approach, marked by E3C2 certification, is also reflected in the school curriculum, with the intended inclusion of modules on environmental education and sustainable development, preparing students for the challenges of the modern world.

This project has enabled Bouygues Construction to underline its commitment by showing that architectural performance can be reconciled with respect for the environment to create sustainable living and educational spaces for future generations.