Construction during active school operations presents a perpetual challenge. The architectural team at dasch zürn + partner met this test head-on, developing a strategy that repositions both the expansion and the redesigned vehicle access to the school's north side. This thoughtful approach kept disruption to school routines, the existing structure, and outdoor spaces to an absolute minimum.

The new 3,320 m² addition offers more than just additional square footage—it establishes a distinctive main entrance that anchors the school's identity. Oriented toward the access road and newly configured bus drop-off, this entrance signals arrival and purpose. Between the school buildings and sports facilities, a protected courtyard has emerged. Presenting itself as a transparent "pavilion," the extension deliberately contrasts with the solid historic structure, yet the continuous balconies that frame the two-story volume do more than divide it horizontally—they integrate essential climate control, delivering sun and weather protection.

The new building's ground floor sits slightly elevated above the existing landscape, allowing architects to bridge the height difference to the existing structure seamlessly. A fully accessible lift connects every level barrier-free. In case of emergency, teachers and students can exit directly via the surrounding balconies and external stairs—a feature that reduces interior fire safety requirements while transforming circulation areas into pedagogically valuable learning and meeting spaces. Every classroom and common area has direct access to these outdoor zones.

The entry level accommodates three classrooms—including a computer lab—plus a canteen with cafeteria and full kitchen. Above, nine additional classrooms and two multipurpose rooms organize into two class clusters of five and four groups respectively.

www.dzpa.de

Photography Credits:

Henrik Schipper
www.henrikschipper.de
Bernhard Tränkle
www.architekturimbild.de

(Published in CUBE Stuttgart 02|22)