The École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), represented by the Construction and Management unit, has planned to redevelop the premises of the PH L0 501, L0 502 and L1 500 physics building at Route de la Sorge in Ecublens. These premises have different uses and are located on two levels. There are laboratories on level 1 and office space on level 2.

The aim of the project is to increase the surface area of the laboratory on level 1 without disrupting the operation of the adjacent laboratory, and to compartmentalize the office space on level 2. In these offices, it is planned to create an open space of around 176 m2 for around 20 people.

The laboratory, housing a high density of technical equipment and requiring flexibility of use, was designed without intermediate supports, in order to offer large usable surfaces.

A wooden solution with a solid floor spanning 14 m was chosen. The main challenges were to manage the floor’s vibrations, and to build it above scientific equipment in operation throughout the construction period.

Glazed and opaque plaster walls separate the spaces while allowing natural light to filter through.

The spaces provided enable EPFL to pursue its activities in pleasant premises that meet today’s requirements.