In 2022, the Carl Friedrich von Weizsäcker Gymnasium in Ratingen gained a vital new extension. Designed by the Bochum-based architects at SSP AG, the three-storey addition was positioned on the east side of the existing school building. A striking bridge—combining glass, steel, and a planted roof—connects the new and existing structures at the first floor level.

The approximately 83-metre new building harmonizes seamlessly with the distinctive existing structure through its shape, zoning, and proportions—while establishing its own identity through contemporary material expression. The ground-floor façade combines clinker brick with full-height glass panels, while the upper storeys feature an aluminium-glass envelope articulated by glass-fibre-reinforced concrete pilasters. Across its 1,600 m² of usable space, the building's layout responds to clear functional requirements. The ground floor accommodates two generous music studios with an intermediate storage and preparation area, along with offices for homework supervision and student counselling. Equally distinctive are the expansive corridors, which provide compelling sightlines and function as vibrant gathering spaces within the school's daily rhythm. The two upper floors—fully accessible—house the school's six-form entry lower-school cohorts. Aligned with contemporary pedagogical practice, these levels feature identity-forming learning clusters. Beyond twelve classrooms, the design includes extra-wide corridors with integrated seating alcoves that serve as both learning zones and social hubs. Each floor also provides a staff workroom, a flexible student lounge, and accessible sanitary facilities.

State-of-the-art technical systems complement the modern classroom spaces, anchoring the building's sustainable approach. Solar panels on the green roof generate clean energy, while decentralized façade ventilation units with heat recovery maintain healthy indoor air year-round—even in winter—without relying on wide-open windows. This system substantially reduces heating demands compared to natural ventilation alone. For this forward-thinking design, SSP AG earned recognition with the iF Design Award in the Public Architecture category.

www.ssp.ag

Photography:

Jörg Hempel
www.joerg-hempel.com

(Published in CUBE Düsseldorf 02|24)