The SOL agency seizes the opportunity of renovating the Jean Macé school group in the working-class neighborhood of Trappes to deconstruct stereotypes associated with urban renewal and reinvent architectural practices, focusing on pedagogy, empowerment, and of course, ecology. From the school project to a case study, the renewal led by Hélène Reinhard is an example of transforming an educational institution in service of a societal project.

Known for her commitment to social inclusion and the democratization of the city, Hélène Reinhard embodies a new generation of architects who practice architecture as a societal project. She reflects on the rightful place of everyone, selects materials based on their contextual relevance and ecological footprint, values traditional craftsmanship and its implementation, and ultimately approaches the making of the city as a truly collective practice.

Photos by Clément Guillaume