Primary School
URBAN INTEGRATION
LOW architecten is responsible for the master plan, the design and execution of the environment construction and the integration of a new school extension for school ‘Eikenlaar’ in Rumst.
The extension of a village school, the construction of a new sports hall and a kiss & ride zone are connected in a clear way around a central core. This creates a place with an important social function where students, parents, visitors, youth sports, etc.. meet. At the same time the chaotic and unsafe traffic situation at the school comes to an and at the school gate.
ARCHITECTURAL INTERPRETATION
The architectural concept of the extension gives a simple answer to the lack of space and the necessity for a covered playground: the school building is placed on columns, freeing up the space on the ground floor and so creating a covered playground.
The classes with large windows on the first floor overlook the playground. Next to the playground, refectory and director’s office are integrated.
The new extension and existing school building both have their own identity and architectural features. In the existing building the necessary interventions were done: skylights in the ceiling give the school hallways new life. Despite the contrast between old and new, they merge perfectly with each other, an interesting dialogue is created. The playground underneath the volume on columns forms the link between both and offers intimacy for children.
PLAYGROUND
A pattern with different shades is laid out over the playground and defines different areas in an informal suggested way. In addition to the pattern, white precast concrete benches are provided. The different forms of the benches refer to mathematical symbols and are easy recognizable for the children.
