Science and Technology Centre “Philo” at Institut Le Rosey

With the new Science and Technology Centre “Philo”, Institut Le Rosey in Rolle (VD), Switzerland, is expanding its campus with an architectural landmark project. The internationally renowned elite boarding school, often referred to as the “most expensive school in the world”, is making a clear statement in innovative educational architecture with this new building. Designed by star architect Bernard Tschumi in collaboration with Fehlmann Architectes, the building combines a forward-looking educational concept with an exceptional architectural form: the ring-shaped structure houses modern teaching and research spaces for natural sciences, technology and entrepreneurship, as well as an auditorium for cultural events and performances.

A particular highlight of the building is the two interweaving spiral tunnel slides made of stainless steel, manufactured by GTSM Magglingen. Measuring around 19 and 27 m in length, they wind through the interior like a DNA double helix, each connecting two upper floors with the ground floor. This makes the building not only a place of learning, but also a place of experience. The architectural openness and the wide range of uses required interior solutions that combine functionality, acoustics, safety and design to the highest standard.

Spatial Structure and Acoustics – Wall Systems by Lindner

For the interior fit-out, Institut Le Rosey relied on wall systems from Lindner to clearly separate the classrooms from one another and from the corridor, without compromising the building’s architectural openness. Between the teaching rooms, Lindner Logic 100 metal partition walls were installed, horizontally aligned and covered with foil. These walls also serve as whiteboards and projection surfaces, supporting modern, interactive teaching methods. High sound insulation values ensure focused learning is possible even when several classrooms are in use simultaneously.

Towards the corridors, glass partition walls from the Lindner Life Contour 126 system were installed, bringing transparency and natural light into the interior of the building. In combination with high-quality timber door leaves, this creates a harmonious interplay of modern technology and natural materials. Enhanced acoustic requirements were also implemented here to maintain the project’s high quality standards and ensure a calm learning environment.

Fire Protection Solutions for Laboratory and Special Areas

The chemistry suites, known as the “Mega Labs”, posed particular safety-related requirements for the interior fit-out. In these areas, the glass partition walls had to be executed with an EI30 fire resistance classification. Single- and double-leaf timber fire doors complemented the overall concept. In addition, ATB-ADS 80 FR 30 fire doors with aluminium frames were installed, providing reliable fire and smoke protection while integrating seamlessly into the building’s architecture.

On-Time Delivery Under Demanding Conditions

The project was delivered under a tight schedule, as the new building had to be operational in time for the start of the 2025 school year. Through precise planning, strong system expertise and efficient execution, the Lindner Group made a significant contribution to the on-time completion of the new school building. The result is a learning environment that combines architectural excellence, technical quality and educational innovation at the highest level, underlining Institut Le Rosey’s exceptional standards.