School, all dressed up | Sehw Architektur

Architecture in dialogue with the urban space

The architecture of the Forchheimer Straße primary school is characterised by two offset structures located in the southern part of the site. This arrangement responds sensitively to the urban environment and creates a differentiated structure that divides the outdoor space into different usage areas. Especially on the street and schoolyard side, this creates a varied interplay of building projections and recesses, which simultaneously divide the outdoor space into different zones and ensure good lighting for the interior spaces.
The interior is accessed via an open central staircase, from which four clusters are accessed on each floor. Learning studios are arranged around two inner courtyards and are completely clad in wood, deliberately distinguishing them from the other classrooms. The building complex provides space for 500 children, who are taught in a cluster school with five classes per year group and looked after in an after-school care centre after school has ended. The double cluster structure comprises six classrooms, management rooms, creative and exercise rooms, children's kitchens and hallway extensions that serve as informal learning areas.

Sustainability as a guiding principle

The primary school meets the highest ecological standards. A photovoltaic system on the flat roof surfaces generates sustainable energy, while external sun protection and special sun protection glazing ensure a pleasant indoor climate. Natural cooling is provided by geothermal probes and geothermal energy, supported by a highly insulated façade with mineral insulation. The building complies with an optimised EnEV energy standard and was funded as part of the ‘Federal Funding for Efficient Buildings’ (BEG) programme. A retention roof stores rainwater and releases it in a controlled manner to sustainably manage the water runoff. In addition, the inner courtyards are covered in greenery and rainwater retention ponds are integrated into the outdoor facilities.

Maximum space utilisation and space saving

The compact, three- to four-storey building follows a combination model with close integration of the school and after-school care centre. This dual use creates synergies and enables efficient use of rooms and outdoor spaces while keeping the footprint small. The barrier-free design ensures unrestricted access: barrier-free door openings with push buttons, door closers with opening assistance, barrier-free door thresholds, ramps to roof terraces and platforms, as well as barrier-free WCs on every floor and a lift ensure inclusive use. Tactile guidance systems and an induction loop system in the hall and auditorium complete the concept.

Innovation for future-oriented learning

At the heart of the design is an innovative cluster model (a model that promotes flexibility and versatility). This creates differentiated learning environments that cater to individual and collaborative educational processes. The inner courtyards invite encounters and create open learning and recreation areas. Natural lighting and well-thought-out room concepts create an atmosphere that promotes learning and interaction.

Social added value as an architectural requirement

The primary school (in Germany) is more than just a place of learning. It is a space for encounters, creativity and community. The nature-oriented playground with play and climbing areas and a school garden supports the holistic development of the children. The barrier-free design ensures that all children can participate fully in everyday school life. The architectural design thus sets an example for an inclusive and sustainable learning environment.

A statement for sustainable educational architecture

Ralf Schekira, Managing Director of WBG KOMMUNAL GmbH, emphasises: ‘With the Forchheimer Straße primary school, we have created a modern educational facility that not only meets the highest educational standards, but is also an ecological role model. This project shows how sustainable architecture and contemporary education go hand in hand.’

With this project, Sehw Architektur proves once again how architecture can act as a catalyst for education, community and sustainability. The new primary school is an example of architecture that takes responsibility and sets forward-looking trends.