NOVARA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 2018 -

The intervention is as direct and restrained as possible, surgically inserted, allowing the Nova school to work as an entity. The building integrates easily into the formal vocabulary of its context with its façade inspired by the rhythm, scale and material expression of the neighbouring buildings reinterpreted in a curtain wall structure. Its materiality confirms the volumetric character: an exposed grid with bare aluminium cladding, glazed surfaces randomly interrupted by solid parts. The light silver-coloured aluminium window frames refer to the off white-coloured facades and window frames of the surrounding buildings. Openings, providing sufficient natural ventilation are placed in relation to interior planning rather than imposing any formal, exterior logic.

The architecture of the new building responds to the demands for a progressive and contemporary educational programme built around team working methodology, individualized instruction, skill building and project-based learning. The decision to place the gymnasium below ground liberated the ground floor which acquires a distinct public character. The main entrance to the new building is from the west via a passage establishing a connection between the street, the school and the inner courtyard. The interconnected public spaces -common room and cafeteria- will not only be merely part of the school, but are anticipated to become a popular place for the local community. On the upper levels the plan’s typology references that of the ‘twin’ school buildings with their central distribution hall, yet radicalises their tripartite organisation featuring a new stratification, with the central axis serving as a three-dimensional distributive and group-work space. On levels +02 and +03, four new classrooms on each, are grouped into a cluster with learning commons just outside. By programming multi-use in the in-between spaces, the scheme de-institutionalizes transitional spaces and gives a sense of place. These gallery-like common areas, including lounges, media space, a storytelling niche or project area, encourage flexible teaching approaches and cater for social communication. The new classrooms, provide an environment that promotes concentration and relaxation. Accessed from two sides, they meet safety regulations while also allowing the room’s subdivision into separate functional ‘corners’. Having a fully external glazed façade, a maximum natural illumination is achieved while at the same time unveiling views. The building’s vertical stratification responds to the existing ‘twin’ buildings’ section, facilitating levelled access on all levels. A rooftop playscape will provide a secure play environment for the whole school complex, while unveiling spectacular views above Vienna’s rooftops.

The building is an innovative construction, offering unique qualitative possibilities. The below ground levels are concrete while the upper are a modular timber structure for maximum flexibility and short construction times. The materials’ palette within the building is confined to fair-faced concrete, natural timber, white plaster and glass.