Gemeentelijke Basisschool

The new building in Berlaar by Bovenbouw contains a primary school and kindergarten for this community on the outskirts of Antwerp. The two institutions share a compact volume that is situated between a major road and open playing fields at the back. In its architectural expression, the design reflects the characteristics of the location and the educational requirements of the different age groups. Disguised by the simple, two-storey volume, the programme of the school – classrooms, dedicated teaching areas and a variety of larger spaces – unfold themselves within a clearly defined perimeter. The height differences within the volume and landscape of roofs make this diversity legible on the outside of the building. Internally, the arrangement of smaller and larger rooms around one double-height central hall creates a range of differentiated spatial experiences. By interweaving the various spaces, an experience of unity is achieved, thereby creating an intuitive sense of orientation and playful discovery.

Christoph Grafe

This project is published in Flanders Architectural Review N°13. This Is a Mustard Factory