The University of Lausanne, EPFL and the CHUV are expanding their life-sciences technology park on the Épalinges site with six new buildings scheduled between 2015 and 2024. Within this context, the “Serine” building extends the campus westward, linking it to the Route de Berne. Its form bends to follow the cantonal road’s contour, while on the opposite side—facing Route de la Corniche—the volume flares out to create a forecourt marking the pedestrian entrance to the campus.
Horizontal spandrel panels rhythm the façade. A pleated skin of brushed stainless steel poetically captures surrounding reflections and the play of light through the seasons. Ribbon windows, framed in aluminium, take in views of the lake and the mountains. Two vertical circulation cores house toilets and other service rooms required on each floor. The column-and-slab structure is left unfinished—without screed or interior linings—offering future occupants total fit-out flexibility.