The concept of the design proposed by schleicher.ragaller is organized through the idea of split levels to facilitate a more efficient organization, with an easterly orientation, where the nearby park becomes the protagonist, providing views of the vegetation that are intended to help concentration and study. Access is via a covered ramp which leads to the upper dining room which also offers a multi-purpose area for guests. In addition, thanks to a mobile stage, the room can host different programmes. From the dining room, a roof terrace can be accessed which offers pupils a stunning view of the Hohenheim Gardens.
The building has an envelope built of light brick and carefully executed prefabricated concrete, which order the elevation and create a project link with the “Paracelsus Grammar School”. Inside, ash wood and the fractional entry of light thanks to the ceiling grids make the space a warm and serene place. The round tables in the dining room invite you to eat together.
Canteen Körschtalschule by schleicher.ragaller. Photograph by Zooey Braun.
Project description by schleicher.ragaller
The purpose of the construction of the new school canteen emanates from the demand for a joint catering facility for the pupils of Körschtalschule and Paracelsus-Gymnasium. Two additional classrooms were also to be provided.
With its compact design, the new building blends harmoniously into the existing development, creating a dialogue with the sports hall and forming a clear urban structure in tandem. In order to preserve the pupils' free play area, the building positions itself on the eastern boundary of the site. By cantilevering the building, the neighbouring open play area to the west is retained in its entirety and can continue to be used by the pupils as a break and leisure area.
The new building is organised on several levels: The split-level concept allows for an efficient yet generous room layout, which makes the building compact and functional at the same time. Access is provided via a ramp that leads directly to the main entrance. A connecting path from the Paracelsus-Gymnasium is also covered to shelter pupils with a comfortable, weather-protected transition. The upper dining hall, which is intended for secondary school pupils, also offers a multifunctional guest area. Thanks to a mobile stage, the room can be transformed into a space of assembly for meetings or events. In addition, the upper dining hall has a roof terrace that offers pupils an impressive view of the Hohenheim gardens.
The new classrooms are in a quiet location and face east towards the neighbouring park. This arrangement offers both retreats for concentrated learning and a pleasant view of the greenery. The entire new building is barrier-free and universaly accessible. A central lift connects all levels of the building and thus ensures unrestricted access.
Special attention was paid to a friendly and inviting interior design. Light-coloured ash wood panelling creates a pleasant atmosphere. Louvres on the ceilings not only serve to regulate the acoustics, but also direct natural light deep into the rooms. In the primary school dining area, rounded seating niches made of wooden slats invite the children to eat together.
The exterior of the new building is also harmonised with the surrounding buildings. The new light-coloured brick façade echoes the brick slip cladding of the neighbouring gymnasium. Prefabricated concrete bands order the elevation and create a design link to the Paracelsus Grammar School.
The new canteen building utilises diverse modern technologies with a focus on sustainability. A photovoltaic system on the green roof surface contributes to energy generation, while heat is distributed via an energy-efficient floor temperature control system. Geothermal boreholes in the schoolyard secure the energy supply and at the same time enable environmentally friendly cooling of the building in the summer months. The new building therefore not only offers a functional solution for school operations, but also fulfils the highest ecological standards.
