Recently, the highly coveted “wan color in architecture award, 2014” was presented to the recipient. The design of a full-day secondary school in Ergolding, Germany, which encompasses a riot of colors and underlines the values of the school’s pedagogical vision, was one of the reasons why behnisch architects and the architectural company leinhaupl + neuber were awarded the prize. School design is directly impacted by the ever-evolving educational techniques that are being implemented. To suit the notion of full-day schools catching up in Germany, the design incorporates autonomous, auxiliary areas such as learning-oriented lounges, breakout rooms for play and leisure, and cafeterias. These are places that are often not found in school buildings. The architects have done an excellent job of using the power of colors in order to create a structure for the school that is not only straightforward but also technically optimized. This construction creates an environment that is stimulating for learning. Not only does a huge, open atrium that spans all four floors of the building serve as a visual link between the many departments of the school, but it also provides a glimpse into the color palette of the building. Floor levels 1, 2, 3, and 4 are denoted by the colors yellow, orange, green, and blue, respectively, with neutrals freely sprinkled throughout. The atrium’s break-free surface ensures that it can be used as a multi-function area, allowing it to be transformed into a venue for small exhibitions, theater performances, and concerts when they are required. In addition to its normal function as a covered lounge, the atrium also serves as a venue for concerts. By presenting a stark contrast to the straight lines of the structure, circular luminaires that are installed on the ceiling and come in a variety of sizes have the ability to give interest to the space. Classrooms that face north have the benefit of being exposed to the light in a consistent orientation. These classrooms get more light from the south facade thanks to a daylight-steering system, which has the effect of lowering the amount of artificial lighting that is required. There are classrooms and workshops that lead to halls that progressively spread, which provide areas for individuals and groups to work together as well as casual gathering spots. The school has a library, four gymnasiums, a big “silentiumraum” for instructors, and two all-weather fields (large and small), some of which are available to outside groups. Additionally, the school has a library. The use of a heat pump and a gas-fueled boiler, respectively, allows for the fulfillment of both the base and peak needs for heating and cooling. In sports halls, the climate is characterized by the presence of floor heating and cooling systems, in addition to fundamental mechanical and natural ventilation systems. A hybrid ventilation system guarantees that the air is of a high quality. The following is evidence that colors have the ability to communicate effectively: Indiaartndesign.com has a gallery of photographs of the school; to see them, go here.
Author
jackemails@gmail.com