Joseph Kessel Student Residence, Saint-Germain-en-Laye, France

In recent years, Saint‑Germain‑en‑Laye has grown into a true university town: almost half of its roughly 45,000 residents study at institutions in Paris or across the Île‑de‑France region. Right where the dense Perrier Forest gives way to the city, the new Residence in the Lisière Pereire district answers this rising demand.

Architecturally, the building is defined by its sloping roofline, injecting dynamism and making room for a generous rooftop terrace. For the façade, HGA | ARCHITECTES chose the RECKLI formliner 2/75 Köcher. Its clean, smooth vertical ribs—spaced by 40‑millimetre joints—create a rhythmic texture that highlights the play of light and shadow and lends the structure a fresh, natural character.

A spacious, transparent foyer at ground level offers views into landscaped courtyards and underscores the building’s openness, while the textured concrete façade forms a striking counterpoint to the large window surfaces on the upper floors.

Well‑equipped rooms, a fitness studio, the rooftop terrace and smart study areas are combined with an ideal location close to universities and public transport. This modern, compact style of living benefits students and the city alike.