2023 Initial project discussions
Le Patus,
a new Focus facility dedicated to new energy solutions
In Saint-Martin-de-Londres, Focus is opening a new chapter in its history with Le Patus: a dedicated facility designed to advance innovative energy solutions, extend the company’s creative spirit and anticipate the needs of tomorrow.
Based for more than 50 years in Viols-le-Fort, in the Cévennes, Focus is expanding less than 10 kilometres away with the construction of a new facility in Saint-Martin-de-Londres.
The project, entitled “Construction of a building dedicated to the development of new energy solutions”, was launched in late 2024.
A building designed for energy innovation
First imagined in 2023, the Le Patus project reflects a clear ambition: to create a dedicated space for developing new energy solutions.
Conceived as an extension of Focus’ creative spirit, the building will enable the company to pursue its work on holograhik, bioethanol and other alternative energy solutions.
The project has three main goals:
- To accelerate the development of innovative energy solutions
- To support the transition towards new, low-impact energy solutions
- To create a space suited to creativity, technical testing and new product development
Why Saint-Martin-de-Londres?
The choice of Saint-Martin-de-Londres was a natural one. Located less than 10 kilometres from Focus’ historic headquarters in Viols-le-Fort, the site allows the company to remain close to its teams, expertise and history. It also sits within a dynamic business area, alongside other local companies.
This location reflects a clear commitment: to support the company’s growth while remaining closely connected to the place where Focus was born. Le Patus therefore strengthens the company’s local roots while contributing to the regional economy.
“Le Patus”: a name rooted in Focus’ history
In Occitan, Patus evokes the idea of a place for sharing. It is a symbolic name for a building conceived as a space for creation, exchange and collective development.
The name Le Patus also pays tribute to the company’s origins and history. It refers to the hill on which la bergerie was built — a former sheepfold first used as a warehouse before becoming a living space for Dominique Imbert, artist and founder of Focus.
Key stages of the construction project
The project followed a clear schedule, from the initial discussions through to the handover of the building.
SEPTEMBRE 2024 Earthworks and construction start in Saint-Martin-de-Londres
DECEMBER 2024 Building envelope made weathertight
JANUARY 2025 Building envelope made airtight
JULY 2025 Building handover
A project rooted in its local area
From the outset, the project was designed to involve local companies wherever possible. Most of the contractors involved are located within 50 kilometres of the site, including one company based right next to the building.
This approach directly supports the local economy and helps limit transport-related
An environmental approach integrated from the design stage
Le Patus was designed to combine technological innovation, energy efficiency and a strong connection to its local setting. From the beginning, the aim was to create a functional, sustainable building aligned with Focus’ commitments.
Compliant with the French RE2020 environmental regulation, the building incorporates several solutions designed to limit its impact while improving comfort for the teams.
Several technical choices were incorporated from the earliest stages of the project.
Wood-fibre insulation
The interior insulation was made with wood fibre, a natural, high-performance, breathable material. It helps regulate humidity and improves the building’s thermal and acoustic comfort.
Rooftop photovoltaic system
A photovoltaic system installed on the flat roof allows the building to use part of the electricity it generates on site, improving its energy efficiency.
Mediterranean landscaping
The landscaping favours Mediterranean plant species adapted to the local climate, reducing the need for permanent watering.
Rainwater harvesting
The site includes a rainwater harvesting system used to clean outdoor areas and water the green spaces during their first year of establishment.
A project supported by the European Union and the Occitanie Region
The project received co-financing from the European Union through the ERDF programme — the European Regional Development Fund — with support from the Occitanie Region.
This €168,653 grant played a decisive role in enabling Focus to fulfil its ambition: creating a more responsible building that combines sustainable materials, technical solutions aligned with the project’s environmental objectives, and an architectural expression consistent with Focus’s aesthetic identity.
Le Patus: a defining step for Focus
With Le Patus, Focus is modernising its infrastructure, supporting its long-term growth and paving the way to new, more responsible energy solutions, in line with its identity and the challenges of tomorrow.