Eduwiek | LIAG architects

LIAG architects and building advisors has designed a new school building called 'Eduwiek' and is built in the Hoogeveen in the North of The Netherlands. Eduwiek is a unique cooperation between the regular high school education of the Roelof van Echten College, the special education of RENN4 and the next-door Orthopedagogical treatment centre of Ambiq.

Together where possible, separated where necessary

The new building houses different kinds of pupils and forms of education but the schools work together by one overall concept: “Together where possible, separated where necessary”. This is also the key concept for the design of the building. Every school has their own space, but all three do they also use each other’s knowledge and facilities. Regular and special education share their wisdom and expertise. This makes that every student is offered a complete package of education and guidance. Teachers interact between departments and learn from each other’s methods and experiences to support the development of their pupils to the fullest.

The building has a naturally lobed form with rounded corners to give it a gentle appearance. It will house different types of education and creates own spaces and places for every type. The division in three wings makes for a natural mapping of the building. The tips of these wings hold private spaces of the school with privacy and calmness for more secure spaces for vulnerable students. The middle of the school consists of shared facilities like a central atrium, professional catering, gymnasium, and practical rooms. This way student can find privacy when needed, but a wide selection of education types too when their talent asks for it. No barriers, instead interesting and challenging education for every pupil.

Located in the middle of the building is an expertise centre for bringing knowledge together about education and healthcare. Teachers of regular and special education share experience and methods, and help each other to support children’s development to the best of their abilities.

Zoning and orientation are supported by distinctive colours linked to the different building parts, and variation in openness and transparency. Colours are meticulously selected to suit the target groups of students and their behaviour. Every building wing has a central atrium for wide views and daylight until deep in the building. Here is also room for several kinds of open working spaces.

Entrances are positioned in the inlets of the lobes. These provide direct access to the central atrium in the centre area. The heart of the building has its own colour palette and serves as a multifunctional meeting place. The wide stair in the central atrium connects the different floors and has a second use as a tribune during school events.