Water treatment plant

Despite its verdant riverside location, the “Fontaines” sewage works has a disagreeably industrial appearance.

Being concerned to improve its brand image in the eyes of customers, the Lyonnaise des Eaux Water Company commissioned the AIM Hanemian Architects Agency to design a more ‘eco-friendly’ appearance for the building and its surrounding garden.

The latter was to be turned into a ‘learning centre’ where children would be invited to come and find out about the importance of water and nature in their lives.

AIM Hanemian Architects suggested a two-fold operation, first on the ‘skin’ of the building and then on the roof. For the elevations a clad­ding in wood was designed to create a warmer, gentler effect. The front elevation was to have a green ‘vertical garden’ designed for it as an extension of the surrounding countryside. A new roof was built and set at an angle above the existing one, and the building suddenly made a much more dynamic impression. The use of timber for the roof and façades made it easier to instal solar panels. All in all school outings are a real learning experience about nature and the elements.

Thanks to this architectural transformation of the building and the associated environmental benefits, the Lyonnaise des Eaux has met with the seal of approval from the Town Hall for the continuation of its operations.