4th Prize: Elisabeth Selbert High School Competition, Filderstadt
Site / Urban Design
The site to be developed is located on the southern edge of Filderstadt-Bernhausen, surrounded by open fields to the south and directly adjacent to a dirt park to the north. The site for the new extension borders the newly planned daycare center to the east. Together with the existing main building and the sports hall on the opposite side, it forms a new campus.
A key objective was to use the free-form building volume to create a clear edge along the adjacent school courtyard. Its parallel alignment with the existing building defines the new courtyard and creates a lively campus center.
Access
The main entrance to the extension is located on the open ground floor. Facing the newly defined school courtyard in the eastern part of the site, it is intended to strengthen the campus as a lively place.
A second entrance is located on the west façade. It is accessed via a small forecourt and establishes a connection to the main entrance of the existing building and to the nearby parking areas.
Building Concept
A new assembly hall is created at the main entrance by combining the multipurpose area with the student common area. The circulation route extending from this space forms the central and lively heart of the building, dividing it into two sections.
Each section contains four classrooms adjoining generously designed corridors with a high level of amenity. Variable learning landscapes and adjacent loggias give the classrooms a distinctive character.
The learning areas on opposite sides of the building offer varied views in all directions. They also allow for the implementation of future educational concepts, such as interconnected classrooms and cluster-based layouts.
Outdoor-Areas
Basic Concept
The open spaces will be reorganized as part of the construction of the new building. The various functions will be integrated into the existing landscape, which is characterized by a valuable mature tree population.
The parking area will be retained. Bicycle parking will be provided beneath loosely arranged canopy structures interspersed with trees. The school garden will be positioned closer to the existing trees, creating the green center of the school grounds.
A small forecourt will be created toward the city, serving as the entrance to the school campus. Hermann-Klein-Weg will run through the site and be integrated into the landscape design through its paving and planting.
School Courtyard, School Garden, and Bicycle Parking
Together with the existing school and sports hall buildings, the new school will define the edges of a large new school courtyard.
The importance of cycling is emphasized. Bicycle parking will be reorganized on easily accessible areas assigned to the school buildings, with short routes to the entrances. The lightweight canopy structures will be arranged loosely and in staggered positions, with trees planted between them.
School Garden and Park
The school garden will be located in a prominent position and will complement the central park. The existing large trees, which provide shade, will be preserved and supplemented with new plantings.
Paths and seating elements throughout the park will invite people to meet, sit, relax, and study. The transformer building will be integrated into the design and landscaped around.
