Distinctions
NF HQE™ Certification – Tertiary Buildings, Excellent performance level
The House of Environmental Sciences is a 3,800 m² building spanning five levels, located at the heart of the UPEC (University of Paris-Est Créteil) central campus in Créteil. Since 2018, researchers, students, and partner companies have occupied this hub of education and research. Its role is to contribute to the public understanding of science in addressing societal challenges related to the environment and territorial development. The advanced level of research carried out in the facility necessitated the creation of laboratories with clean-room conditions, featuring controlled atmospheres and specialized fluid and safety systems.
The façades play an integral role in achieving high environmental performance, as confirmed by the Excellent HQE tertiary certification. The building’s welcoming nature is emphasized through a large forecourt and entrance hall, and by the smooth flow between laboratory and office spaces.
A new tool enhancing engineering performance
This was the first building modeled using BIM (Building Information Modeling) by AIA Life Designers, laying the groundwork for a design approach now standard across all their projects. The BIM model was co-developed by architects and engineers, enabling early coordination and integration. Each engineering discipline was challenged by the complexity of the systems involved :
– Structural engineers isolated the first-floor slab to accommodate laboratory needs
– HVAC engineers implemented pressure cascades to maintain ultra-clean environments
– Electrical engineers ensured both low- and high-voltage systems met rigorous safety and security standards
– Cost engineers optimized resources to stay within the allocated project budget
Client
Île-de-France Region on behalf of the University of Paris-Est Créteil
Project Team
Architect : AIA Architectes
Engineering & Cost Management (all trades) : AIA Ingénierie
Environmental Expertise : AIA Environnement
Program
Scientific laboratories, teaching rooms, 200-seat lecture hall
Area
3,831 m² GFA
Cost
Construction cost (undisclosed)
Timeline
Competition : 2011
Completion : August 2017