New 4-stream secondary school in Leipzig in modular timber construction

Stadt Leipzig

Kaden + Lager, Berlin

Kaufmann Bausysteme GmbH (ARGE mit Architekt)

https://www.ingenieurholzbau.de/projekte/oeffentliche-bauten/erziehung-bildung-forschung/osblp-erste-schule-in-holzbauweise-in-sachsen

The school's energy concept relies on district heating as the primary source of heating, while central cooling has not been implemented. A special feature is the conscious decision to use renewable energy and to dispense with a conventional cooling system.

The architecture is characterized by a compact structure that surrounds the schoolyard in a U-shape. This design enables efficient use of space and creates an appealing atmosphere that promotes community. Both the interior and exterior are characterized throughout by the design element of wood, which is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also emphasizes the sustainable use of renewable building materials.

Teachers and pupils were involved in the planning process as part of the immediate school program. There was also coordination with the AfSch (working group for schools), which represented the interests of the users. This participatory approach ensured a needs-oriented design and encouraged the school community to identify with the building project.

The decision to use timber construction as the load-bearing element of the structure highlights the school as a pioneer in terms of sustainability. Despite the ecological focus, however, no life cycle assessment was carried out. There is no information available on exactly how much wood was used and what CO2 savings were achieved compared to conventional building materials. Reinforced concrete was only used for the foundation/floor slab and stairwells/firewall. The building has no basement.

The short implementation period from June 2018 to November 2018 in the competitive dialog and the subsequent planning and execution until completion in July 2020 resulted from the decision to use a general contractor in modular construction. The high level of prefabrication enabled an efficient construction phase and had a positive impact on the overall implementation time. Milestones such as the building permit in March 2019 and completion for the start of the 2020/21 school year were achieved on schedule.

The City of Leipzig sets standards for school buildings that were not deviated from in this project. These standards include specifications for the room program as well as structural and technical qualities. However, the project stands out from the usual standards due to the consistent use of sustainable building materials and the use of wood as a load-bearing element.

EnEV 2014 with the increased requirements of 2016

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Wooden facade, extensive green roof

The school was specifically designed for a pupil population of 672, with particular attention paid to the precise implementation of the specified structural standards for buildings in the city of Leipzig.

Mechanical ventilation of classrooms and common rooms (sound insulation)

Implementation of specifications for building standards for properties in the City of Leipzig

Planning and execution by a general contractor

Short project implementation time due to modular design