What could be more sustainable than saving a good building from demolition? derksen|windt architecten create light, space and air in an existing primary school with a smart and circular intervention.

A primary school in the municipality of Heemstede was eligible for demolition and a new building based on a municipal housing plan. In response to this, derksen|windt architecten disegned a plan for a renovation in collaboration with the management of the primary school. A design that supports and strengthens the educational vision, retains the strength of the typical hall school, and adds a lot of spatial quality. The renovation was completed within a summer holiday, for a small part of the costs of a new build school.

In the Netherlands there are many older school buildings that no longer meet current standards and have a shortage of space, including the typical hall school De Evenaar. Municipalities, including Heemstede, drew up a multi-year plan in an Integrated Housing Plan (IHP). Schools are often replaced, as renovation is seen as more complicated and uncertain and because the future image is more difficult to 'sell' within municipalities and boards. In the opinion of derksen|windt architecten, this is a huge shame, they believe that sustainability starts with reusing what is good. This type of school, with spacious and bright classrooms, has a lot of potential and authenticity.

By not demolishing the school and making it future-proof again, this is sustainability as it should be in the eyes of the architects. The expansion is completely circular and with this renovation facilities for fresh air, safety and sustainable lighting could be integrated into the school.

The roof of the existing hall has been demolished in the design. A new two- layer wooden volume has been placed there as a new core of the building. Due to the special roof structure and by filling only half a floor, there is plenty of light and space inside. The teachers' room, boardroom and various smaller teaching rooms are positioned on the first floor. Below, in addition to space for an extra classroom and flexible teaching places, a fantastic space for a stage and beautiful central staircase has been created. This creates a new hall as the heart of the school.

The extension consists of an impressive wooden laminated construction that is left visible from the inside. Wall infills in timber frame construction, finished in light pine, create a beautiful contrast with the warmer colored columns and beams. The skylights provide diffuse light, which creates a very warm and peaceful atmosphere. From the outside, the beautiful shed shape has a connection with the original roof of the classrooms. With the vertical wooden cladding it is a modest and at the same time striking extension.

The school could not close or move during the year, so the renovation had to be carried out in one summer holiday. This was achieved despite the bad weather by fully planning the construction in advance and building as much as possible from prefabricated parts. After the summer, the children could enjoy a future-proof and renewed school.