School Houthavens
The rugged, water-rich industry of the ports, the refined workers’ architecture of the Spaarndam district, and the new designs of the Houthaven (Timber Port). These three atmospheres served as the inspiration for the new primary school: a rectangular, rational structure framed by flowing wooden balconies. Simultaneously robust and inviting. Two primary schools, a daycare centre, out-of-school care facilities, a restaurant, a gymnasium, and commercial spaces are housed here, with each retaining its own unique identity.
Programme
School
Surface
4.000 m² GFA
Architect
G. Cito, L. Grooteman
Team
P. Lievense, M. van der Schee
Year
2011
Status
Not built
Location
Amsterdam
Client
Amsterdam-West district
Come on in!
The building is cleverly organised. You can enter from the kiss-and-go lane via the main entrance or via the individual ground-level entrances. Welcome to children and their Bugaboo strollers! At the heart of the building, you can find playrooms, auditoriums, and music, dance, and theatre rooms. The group spaces and offices are located along the exterior walls. This layout saves significant space, allowing for a considerably larger entrance, auditorium, out-of-school care facility, and daycare centre. Additionally, the schoolchildren can work independently or in small groups at one of the valuable learning plazas, which have been incorporated into the programme.
Step outside!
The wavy outer shell not only gives the building a charming yet approachable appearance, but the balconies also provide shade and reduce noise. The curved hedges and bicycle racks complement the friendly, sheltered character of the outdoor area. On the ground floor, the children play on their own playground next to the group space. Passers-by enjoy a drink on the open terrace. Users on the first floor have just the terrace, balcony, or view that suits them. And the roof is the finishing touch, featuring an open-air theatre, rooftop garden, school gardens and solar panels.