Bregenz Grammar School
The character of Bregenz Grammar School is defined by its existing ensemble of three-storey main building as well as the sports hall and expansive playing fields which adjoin it at right-angles. A spacious schoolyard is sheltered from the neighbouring street by a one-storey auxiliary building. The solitary, concrete architecture of the secondary school, especially its ribbon windows and clear composition, served as important points of reference for Cukrowicz Nachbaur’s extension. The design unobtrusively and economically integrates the additional floor area without altering the original buildings’ height or form. What was formerly a single-storey connection between the classrooms and sports hall has been extended upwards by two storeys to accommodate four new classrooms as well as large, versatile recreation areas. The lower ground floor has been upgraded from bicycle parking to hold specialised classrooms. The existing architecture’s palette of solid materials is also used in the new additions to maintain the uniform, clear appearance of the complex. Natural light throughout the classrooms and recreation areas was the central consideration in designing the new building. Large windows and brightly-coloured finishes on the walls and ceiling were central to achieving this. An orange natural rubber floor lends warmth to the interior. Outdoor areas have been reimagined as part of the new overall pedagogic concept. The visible archaeological excavations, thematic planting schemes and the existing flowerbeds in the yard can all directly support the teaching within the building. A new covered bicycle rack encloses the northern boundary of the site.
Design Team: Andreas Cukrowicz, Anton Nachbaur-Sturm, Michael Abt [PL], Michael Cukrowicz, Christian Moosbrugger, Markus Cukrowicz
Client: BIG Bundesimmobiliengesellschaft mbH
Photos: Hanspeter Schiess for cukrowicz nachbaur architekten
Competition 2002 1st Prize, Construction 2007