Georges Freche School of Hotel Management, there is a famous song that states, “Let’s tessellate, triangles are my favorite shape”, and jokingly, it seems to be the anthem for Georges Freche School of Hotel Management in Montpellier, France designed by Massimiliano and Doriana Fuksas.
© Studio Fuksas; Georges-Freche School of Hotel Management / Massimiliano and Doriana Fuksas
The architects created a horizontal developed shape, alternating between sculptural elements and compact modules, all blended together through the aesthetic of the tessellated facades, which are a wonderful play of triangle shapes that might seem random, but in fact optimize the interior appearance of light and shadows.
© Studio Fuksas; Georges-Freche School of Hotel Management / Massimiliano and Doriana Fuksas
The school holds accommodation for students, housing for management team, a gym, sports ground and athletic track. The two entrances (one for students and teachers, one for clients) are on opposite sides.
© Studio Fuksas; Georges-Freche School of Hotel Management / Massimiliano and Doriana Fuksas
If we take a closer look at the project, its primary gestures are those of contrast: between the fluid and the compact shapes, between the caped and the glazed surfaces, between the different types of furniture or colors used in the interior, designed to offer each space individuality..
© Studio Fuksas; Georges-Freche School of Hotel Management / Massimiliano and Doriana Fuksas
Additionally, both the aluminum elements of the facades (specifically, the 17000 pieces of anodized aluminum, each unique and with a specific bar code) and the reinforced concrete have been especially adapted to mold the needs of the shape. The roof of the building house the multi-functional room, the gallery, offices, some of the classrooms and canteen. The building with apartments is covered in photovoltaic panels..
© Studio Fuksas; Georges-Freche School of Hotel Management / Massimiliano and Doriana Fuksas
The building is a rare case of a structure that is both interesting at a macro scale, from a purely volumetric point of view, but also hosts a multitude of beautiful details, such as the twisted shapes, the walkways and the alternation between light and shadow created in the interior.
Project Information:
Architect: Massimiliano and Doriana Fuksa
Country: France, Montpellier
Project Year: 2007–2012
Photographs: Studio Fuksas; Georges-Freche School of Hotel Management / Massimiliano and Doriana Fuksas
Gross Surface Area: 25,736.80 square meters
Project Team: Damon Belusco (project leader), Michele D’Arcangelo, Nicola Cabiati (model), Ana Gugic (interiors)
Lidia Ratoi is a Romanian architect, educator, and researcher, currently serving as Assistant Professor at the University of Hong Kong’s Department of Architecture. With a background in both architectural design and theory, her work explores the intersections of technology, media, and politics in the built environment. Ratoi’s research focuses on the aesthetics of power, surveillance, and virtuality, with a strong interest in critical and speculative design. She has practiced internationally and exhibited in venues across Europe and Asia. Passionate about challenging conventional narratives, Ratoi integrates digital tools with philosophical inquiry, encouraging experimental approaches to architecture. Her contributions continue to shape emerging discourses in design and architectural pedagogy.