Established in 1889 the ENSAIT stands proudly before you. A testament to textile heritage it’s a school that has adapted to market demands. Textiles remain vibrant constantly evolving into innovative sectors.
ENSAIT’s history is rich and fascinating. It began in 1876 when Roubaix’s City Council sought a school for their industrial city. The government also needed to serve the textile industry. The ENAI National School of Industrial Arts was thus created in 1881. An agreement was made between the state and Roubaix in 1882. The school was renamed ENSAIT in 1921. It’s a testament to its enduring legacy.
The ENSAIT building itself is a masterpiece. Designed by Charles Louis Ferdinand Dutert a renowned architect. Dutert won the Grand Prix de Rome for Architecture. He spent five years restoring Rome’s Imperial Palace. He was appointed Government Architect in 1882. His ENSAIT creation from 1886 to 1889 is his most significant work. Dutert’s support was crucial in bringing the textile school to Roubaix.
Initially the ENSAIT included a municipal library. This was unusual for the time. It provided convenient access for students and the public. Located centrally yet away from the workshops. After World War II the library moved. The ENSAIT library stopped functioning in 1975. A fire damaged it significantly. Today it solely supports ENSAIT students.
ENSAIT continues to innovate. It boasts the GEMTEX research laboratory. A leading European university textile laboratory. GEMTEX’s work includes materials chemistry mechanics composites and sustainable development. It employs researchers engineers and PhD students. It highlights the school’s commitment to research and development. This ensures ENSAIT remains at the forefront of textile technology. ENSAIT’s dedication to training versatile engineers capable of providing excellent advice to the textile industry continues to shape the future of textiles. The school remains a dynamic and evolving institution.