In Gersthofen the new campus of the International School Augsburg is emerging as a forward looking educational ensemble that places the transformation of existing architecture consistently at its core. On the site of the former Paul Klee School a three storey school building from the 1970s is being comprehensively renovated and complemented by carefully placed new buildings in timber construction. Instead of demolition the project deliberately focuses on preserving the existing reinforced concrete skeleton and makes the responsible use of grey energy a central design principle. By continuing to use the load bearing structure around 1250 tonnes of CO2 remain bound within the existing building.
Within the retained structure new highly flexible learning environments are created. Traditional corridor zones are dissolved and replaced by learning clusters with open pods combinable classrooms and versatile communal areas. This spatial openness enables contemporary pedagogical concepts such as co teaching collaborative learning and large scale examination settings and shapes the guiding vision of a school without corridors. The spatial heart of the campus is formed by the former assembly hall which has been transformed into a light filled atrium that serves as a central space for encounter and events connecting the school cafeteria and outdoor areas.
A new timber frame facade and targeted interventions in the existing building improve energy performance and create a warm and supportive learning atmosphere. The concrete structure is complemented by regenerative materials such as wood and clay which enhance both indoor climate and spatial comfort. The new buildings including the Early Learning Center and the double sports hall integrate harmoniously into the ensemble and continue the resource conscious approach for example through the reuse of existing steel beams.
The outdoor spaces also follow the principle of sustainability. The campus is designed as a sponge city with retention areas green roofs and a wide range of spaces for movement play and retreat. A photovoltaic system district heating and a future oriented mobility infrastructure support energy efficient operation. The result is a DGNB Gold certified school campus that demonstrates how architectural quality pedagogical innovation and climate responsibility can be developed from the strength of the existing building fabric.