Dirksen|Wendt Architects| Light, space and air by expanding primary schools

derksen|windt architects have created a design for the extension and refurbishment of a primary school in Hemstead. A plan that supports and enhances the educational vision, retains the strength of the typical basement school, and adds a lot of spatial quality. The renovation was completed over the summer break for a fraction of the costs of new construction.

The Netherlands has many old school buildings that no longer meet current standards and have a shortage of space, including the De Evenaar Model School. Municipalities, including Hempstead, are developing a multi-year plan within the Integrated Housing Plan (IHP). Schools are often replaced as the regeneration process is viewed as more complex and uncertain and because the future picture is more difficult to ‘sell’ within municipalities and councils. In the opinion of Dirksen engineers | Wendt, this is a huge shame, they believe that sustainability starts with reusing what is good. This type of school, with its spacious and bright classrooms, has a lot of potential and originality.

By not demolishing the school and making it future-proof again, this is sustainability as it should be in the eyes of architects. The expansion is completely circular and with these renovation facilities for fresh air, safety and sustainable lighting can be integrated into the school. The roof of the covered courtyard was demolished in the design. A new two-layer timber volume was placed there as a new core for the building. Due to the special roof structure and filling only half a floor, there is plenty of light and space inside. The teachers’ room, meeting room and several smaller teaching rooms are located on the first floor. In the basement, in addition to space for an additional classroom and flexible teaching spaces, an impressive space for a theater and a beautiful central staircase has been created. This creates a new hall as the heart of the school.

The extension consists of an impressive laminated timber construction which is left visible from the inside. Timber frame wall inserts, finished in light pine, create a beautiful contrast to the warmer colored columns and beams. Skylights provide diffused light, creating a very warm and calm atmosphere. Externally, the beautiful shed shape connects to the original roof of the classrooms. With vertical wood cladding it is a modest extension and at the same time eye-catching.

It was not possible to close or move the school during the year, so the renovation had to be carried out in one summer holiday. This was achieved despite the inclement weather conditions by fully planning the construction in advance and building as many prefabricated parts as possible. After the summer, children can enjoy a renewed and sustainable school for the future.