Projects / Primary School L'Étoile
An innovative elementary school with a central core, focused on well-being, sustainability and academic success.
An innovative and inspiring learning environment
École de l’Étoile is a 4,500 m² elementary school designed to welcome 480 students in a stimulating, healthy, and inclusive setting. It includes 18 classrooms, three kindergarten rooms, a library-media center with a video editing space, a multipurpose room, a resource classroom, a double gymnasium, a daycare service, and comprehensive administrative offices for teaching and professional staff.
Architecture with a central heart
STGM developed a bold architectural concept based on a central core typology, where the gymnasium—visible from all circulation areas—acts as a spatial anchor and promotes healthy lifestyle habits. This design encourages transparency, fluid movement, and interaction among all members of the school community.The hall and corridors were designed as meeting and gathering spaces, reminiscent of a church forecourt. In this growing neighborhood, the school becomes a true living environment, welcoming and accessible, strengthening connections between families, children, and educational staff.
Sustainable and pedagogical principles
The project integrates several sustainable strategies: maximizing natural light, biophilic design, flexible furniture, kitchenette in each classroom, and corridors used as extensions of the learning space. These choices support the school’s unique educational program and foster autonomy, collaboration, and well-being.
Although not submitted to awards, École de l’Étoile is featured in the Lab-École publication Thinking the School of Tomorrow, notably for its central core typology and spatial qualities. It embodies the principles of future-ready schools, promoting academic success and holistic development.
A challenge met with ingenuity
Despite the absence of an official construction site at the outset, STGM anticipated the unpredictable. Thanks to a flexible and thoughtful design, the team preserved the original plans and adapted the project to its final location, ensuring feasibility and coherence.