Leers Weinzapfel was a finalist in an international design competition for the HEC Graduate School of Business, one of the leading business schools in France. As part of a plan to renovate the 1960’s campus residences and create two new residences, HEC plans to provide a new campus meeting place.

Although small in size, the centrally located “Totem” as it’s called, creates a clear destination among its larger neighbors. A crystalline object, the Totem houses a café at the ground and mezzanine levels, a level of student services, and a generous multi-function space at the top of the building overlooking the campus. From the entry approach, the academic center, and the residence halls, the Totem is a clear marker and orientation point within this dispersed campus setting.