Darmstadt's largest primary school has grown larger still. The Erich Kästner Primary School in Kranichstein, where nearly 600 students from 40 nations learn together, now features a substantial new extension. Spanning approximately 2,470 m², the addition was designed by Stuttgart-based architecture firm dasch zürn + partner, whose concept triumphed in an architectural competition concluded in late 2015. Beyond six classrooms, the building houses the school canteen and faculty spaces. While the playground was necessarily reduced to accommodate the expansion, the new structure seamlessly integrates into the park-like setting—an inviting, single-storey green "carpet" that enhances rather than disrupts the existing landscape.

The interplay of expansive glazed surfaces with external shading systems and solid exterior walls featuring ventilated timber cladding defines this low, linear building's character. The green roof serves dual purposes: managing rainwater runoff and protecting the roof membrane. Clad in light-stained timber, the extension feels at home in its landscape while its approachable appearance warmly invites occupants and visitors alike. The interior similarly embraces natural, durable materials: light wood panelling covers all walls except for the secondary spaces. High-traffic zones—the entrance hall and cafeteria—feature polished concrete floors, while classrooms, administrative areas, and staff spaces are lined with linoleum. Perforated acoustic panels suspended throughout maintain excellent room acoustics with minimal reverberation.

The outdoor spaces serve multiple pedagogical purposes: alongside the main playground, smaller outdoor zones are strategically positioned near their respective activity areas. These thoughtfully designed landscapes offer expansive movement spaces, intimate retreat zones, and modelled activity stations. Surface treatments allow rainwater to permeate the site rather than entering the drainage system, with overflow directed to Lake Erich Kästner. Inside, three functional zones radiate from a central foyer: classrooms and flexible learning rooms cluster around an open, shared learning and gathering space; the teaching and administration areas connect to the surrounding greenery; and the canteen flows into the foyer while remaining accessible to the broader community through a separate entrance. Additional exterior doors directly link interior spaces to the adjacent outdoor areas.

www.dzpa.de

Photography Credits:

Henrik Schipper
www.henrikschipper.de

(Published in CUBE Frankfurt 04|22)