Lighting at the Ecole Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture et de Paysage de Lille

The École nationale supérieure d’architecture et de paysage de Lille (ENSAPL), built in 1977 by architect Pierre Eldin, embodies a brutalist style of architecture characterized by the predominant use of concrete and rigorous geometric forms. As part of its recent renovation, particular attention was paid to the lighting in order to highlight the intrinsic qualities of this emblematic structure, while meeting the functional requirements of the learning and circulation spaces.

Sammode’s tubular luminaires were selected for their ability to interact harmoniously with the raw aesthetics of the building. Their sleek, linear design blends discreetly into the existing volumes, while providing controlled light distribution. The main challenge was to ensure the visual comfort of users: the lighting had to allow perfect legibility of the spaces while avoiding any form of glare. Thanks to carefully studied photometry and precise control of luminous flux, the luminaires guarantee homogeneous, diffused light, preserving the perception of materials and architectural contrasts.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Sammode’s lighting solutions meet the requirements of a busy establishment. Their robustness and durability ensure long-lasting performance, essential in a place where the quality of lighting directly influences the experience of students and teachers. What’s more, their design allows for optimized maintenance and adaptability to future technological developments.

This lighting intervention illustrates how well thought-out lighting can enhance existing architecture, respecting its identity while improving visual comfort and the appropriation of spaces by their occupants.

Location: Lille, France
Credits: ©Alain Caste, Sammode