Located in Saint-Herblain, in the Loire-Atlantique region, the Arronax nuclear medicine research and development center recently acquired an extension that seamlessly integrates both the environment and the existing building. This challenge was met thanks to the use of Fundermax Max Compact Exterior HPL laminate panels, chosen for their raw aesthetic and architectural adaptability.

Designed by architect Benoît Souffrant of the I-MEDIAA group, the extension to the R&D center in Saint-Herblain, just outside Nantes, offers visual continuity with the main building while giving the new premises their own distinct identity. The specific layout of the original cladding and the existing roof spaces prompted the architect to choose materials that would enhance the overall effect without creating any disruption. To bring this extension to life, Benoît Souffrant opted for Fundermax Max Compact Exterior composite cladding panels in Authentic Mocca. "The challenge was to create a connection with the existing building, while giving the extension its own character. The material had to convey this uniqueness," explains the architect. A bold choice that reflects the desire to reinforce the building's identity and echo the metal elements present on another facade.

A high-performance and sustainable solution

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Fundermax cladding was selected for its technical performance: made of Kraft paper, certified with a bio-sourced label and equipped with an FDES (French Environmental Protection Agency), it offers resistance to impact (Q4), UV rays, and weathering, while its B-s2-d0 classification also attests to its fire resistance. Its installation went smoothly thanks to a "double-skin" installation system on metal support plates, in accordance with the CSTB Fundermax ME06 FR Technical Assessment (see box). This method, designed for industrial, commercial, and tertiary buildings, guarantees optimal durability while preserving architectural freedom. For this extension, the panels were custom-installed to match the architect's layout and the desired finish, while also taking into account the expected performance criteria.

Plant Display

Particular care was taken in the treatment of the south facade of the extension, "designed as the background of a plant display." For Benoît Souffrant, "the idea was to have a Fundermax panel behind it and plant material in the foreground. To achieve this, cables were run over the panel so that the plants could climb on it. The Mocca Authentic panel perfectly suits the feel we wanted to give to the space, this desire to create a true plant display." A successful technical and architectural challenge for a contemporary, sustainable, and environmentally friendly building.

Site Details

Project Owner: Arronax Nantes.

Architect: BTST.

Engineering: I-MEDIAA-Benoît Souffrant.

Package 4 Cladding Contractor: SEO Nantes, ASTEN Group.

Focus on the Implementation

To ensure both durable and aesthetically pleasing facades, the installation of the double-skin cladding system on Fundermax metal support panels was carried out in five stages:

• Installation of the cladding panel, which acts as a support wall;

• Installation of the insulation panels, placed inside the cladding panel;

• Installation of a metal rain screen, positioned on the exterior face of the insulation layer;

• Installation of the steel omega frame;

• And finally, application of an exterior cladding with Authentic Mocca bio-sourced panels.

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