Schulanlage Hinterbüel, Olten

This proposal was developed for the architectural competition for the extension of the Hinterbüel school complex in Wangen bei Olten (canton of Solothurn). The existing campus, built in the 1950s and 60s, is composed of several small volumes connected by covered walkways and surrounded by generous outdoor spaces in close contact with the forest.

The project introduces a new building on the western side of the complex, designed to integrate naturally with the existing school while creating a clearer and more welcoming entrance to the campus. The upper floor accommodates the new school spaces, directly connected to the existing building, while the ground floor hosts a daycare with its own independent access.

The architecture takes inspiration from the modular logic of the original buildings, based on a 9 × 9 meter grid. This simple and regular structure allows flexible spaces and efficient construction through prefabricated elements, combining recycled concrete with timber components.

Particular attention is given to the landscape. The building helps structure different outdoor spaces, including a natural play area facing the forest and a central courtyard that can function as an outdoor classroom. A covered bicycle parking area integrated beneath the building allows the campus to remain largely green and permeable.

The environmental strategy focuses on simple and robust solutions: natural ventilation, good daylight, a high-performance envelope and on-site energy production, aiming to create a comfortable and energy-efficient learning environment.

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