The Marist high school in Lyon, France, designed by renowned architect Georges Adilon, will open its doors to the public during the 2025 Heritage Days. The school's revolutionary architecture was specifically conceived as a pedagogical tool to awaken and stimulate students, perfectly aligning with the educational philosophy of the institution.

From the street, the entrance to the Marist high school appears almost ordinary. However, visitors who climb the stairs and push through the doors discover an exceptional space with resolutely contemporary architecture. Georges Adilon worked on this project for approximately 35 years at the request of Father Marc Perrot. In the 1960s, the architect remodeled the premises, incorporating concrete and its distinctive forms to create a perfect harmony between his architectural vision and the school's educational philosophy.

The design embodies the Marist tradition through its use of circles and squares throughout the building, reflecting the institution's teaching approach. "The Marist tradition tells us that with students, we must be both round and square, meaning both flexible and empathetic while also providing a framework and giving reference points," explains Xavier Dufour, a mathematics teacher at the school. This architectural philosophy extends to every detail of the building, where being "round and square" means providing a framework that allows freedom to grow through confronting expectations.

One of the most striking features of the school is that no two windows are identical, symbolically representing that each student brings a unique perspective to the world. The building deliberately avoids long, monotonous corridors, instead providing open spaces for circulation. Students move through courtyards rather than traditional hallways, and the classrooms break away from conventional design standards.

"Without really thinking about it, the fact that we're not always in the same square room, in a building where you only move through corridors - here, we move through courtyards - really clears the mind. And it's incredibly important to be able to have a connection with the outside," testifies Jean Fernet, a senior student. The innovative environment serves as a constant source of inspiration and learning for the students who spend their days within its walls.

The architecture actively serves the educational mission of the school by awakening students' curiosity and aesthetic sense. "It's very rich, it draws the eye, and it also raises questions. We're constantly, when we walk through the different levels, looking up to discover new details. And that's a kind of daily stimulation of curiosity and sense of beauty," confirms teacher Xavier Dufour. The building itself becomes an additional teacher, providing lessons in design, creativity, and attention to detail.

Georges Adilon and Father Marc Perrot collaborated to imagine a teaching environment that would awaken and stimulate students on Lyon's Fourvière hill. Their vision created a space where architecture and education work hand in hand to enhance the learning experience. The unique design challenges students to think differently about their environment and their place within it.

For those interested in experiencing this architectural marvel firsthand, the school will open its doors to the public on Saturday, September 21, from 9 AM to 1 PM as part of the Heritage Days celebration. Visitors should not miss the detour to the terrace, which offers a breathtaking view over Lyon. The public will also have the opportunity to meet teachers and students, discuss the life of the institution, and discover its educational and pastoral projects. This rare opportunity provides insight into how innovative architecture can serve as a powerful educational tool in the 21st century.