Interplay between light and shadow

Located on Boulevard d’Indochine, 19th arrondissement of Paris, the Indochine student accommodation complex comprises 130 student rooms plus a retail space.The one-block building boasts a polygonal structure that optimizes the surrounding space.The project brief included the need to shield the rooms against noise pollution from the nearby Paris ring-road while offering maximal daylighting.The solution employed by the architects was to integrate huge glazing panels sashed into the facade and install 544 Griesser model-S pantograph shutters to facilitate controlled ambient lighting conditions in each lodging. Flexible opening angles offer special new lighting atmospheres and shading effects while staying perfectly compliant to French RT2012 building code requirements on thermal comfort.When open, the pantograph shutters are folded out at right angles to the facade, which draws in the optimal solar lighting.When half-opened, occupants can play with the panel angles to pull natural lighting in while keeping direct sunlight out.When closed, the pantograph shutter keeps light penetration under control for optimal privacy and night-time comfort.The latest in electrical drive technology and controls ensures a convenient and controlled occupant experience.Griesser’s pantograph shutter system has other added advantages:» Thermal and visual comfort» Zero-maintenance solutionNote that the entire hall of residence carries the BBC Effinergie® Habitat et Environnement low-energy building performance label.