« Zone Michel » comptetition, Courtaman

« Zone Michel » comptetition, Courtaman

Municipality of Courtepin
CH-1784 Courtepin

Project Overview

Location and Purpose The site is located in the heart of the village of Courtaman, recently merged with the neighboring municipality of Courtepin.

The planned facilities include spaces for after-school care for primary school children, a nursery, communal spaces with a toy library, an association meeting area, and a parking lot.

Mandate

Our mission is to create a public gathering space offering after-school care, a nursery, a toy library, and shared facilities, complemented by a welcoming outdoor area for the community and neighborhood.

Section AA

Section BB

Our Project

Our design integrates two structures on the available site.

At the parcel scale, the project nestles within the existing slope, organized on a mineral technical base housing the program’s support functions. Overlaid on this base is a wooden volume that accommodates the active areas.

The building is arranged around a central courtyard for children, providing safe, light-filled spaces while minimizing noise for neighbors.

The adjacent square, accessible through a covered area, offers a spacious central area with shaded greenery, making it perfect for various community events.

At the neighborhood scale, the project serves as a structural element for the area. Its integration catalyzes the redesign of the nearby roundabout and pedestrian flows. Visible from the main road, the building utilizes topography to provide three distinct, secure access points tailored to user needs.

A Day in the Life of Michel and His Family

The story of Michel and his family showcases the project’s vision and functionality.

Morning:

Six-year-old Michel begins his day at Courtaman’s childhood center, a warm and familiar place. The wooden structure with large windows is bathed in natural light, creating a secure, welcoming environment. Michel attends after-school care, while his younger sister, Alice, goes to the nursery. The shared entrance for both programs makes drop-off and pick-up convenient for parents.

1st floor

Midday:

At noon, Michel enjoys time with friends at the toy library. Small events are regularly held, with after-school care just across the courtyard.

Afternoon:

After school, Michel’s father picks him up and joins a community association meeting. The gathering is followed by an outdoor reception, facilitated by an accessible kitchen and self-service barbecue area. Participants settle around picnic tables near the play area. In case of light rain, everyone can move under the covered area.

Site plan

Evening:

While the adults continue their discussions, the children enjoy a final game on the nearby football field. The association’s leader has easy access to equipment from the basement storage, thanks to the lift.

A Space Designed for Everyone

The building and its surroundings are designed to be a harmonious, multifunctional space that caters to all generations. It meets daily family needs and fosters social interaction and community activities.

This central community space provides a welcoming environment where every member feels at home, while enjoying modern, accessible facilities.

Basement plan