circular renovation repurposes existing primary school's structure in the netherlands

derksen|windt architecten revives Heemstede Primary School

Heemstede Primary School’s renovation by derksen|windt architecten demonstrates a sustainable approach by repurposing an existing structure slated for demolition. The design focuses on optimizing light, space, and air within the school through thoughtful and circular intervention.

The primary school in Heemstede, Netherlands, faced the prospect of demolition as part of a municipal housing plan. Responding to this, derksen|windt architecten collaborated with the school’s management to develop a renovation plan. The design aligns with the educational vision, preserves the distinctive hall school characteristics, and introduces enhanced spatial quality.

In the Netherlands, numerous aging school buildings, such as De Evenaar, struggle to meet modern standards and space requirements. Municipalities, including Heemstede, often favor replacement over renovation due to perceived complications and uncertainties. derksen|windt architecten, however, follows a sustainable approach through the preservation of valuable structures.

all images by René de Wit

Interventions harmonize with the original timber frame

The design team at derksen|windt architecten views the potential and authenticity of the existing school structure, reusing several purposeful architectural elements. The circular expansion of the school addresses the need for fresh air, safety, and sustainable lighting integration. The design involves the removal of the existing hall roof, replaced by a new two-layer wooden volume that becomes the building’s core. This addition, featuring visible wooden laminated construction, introduces spacious and well-lit areas and houses facilities like the teachers’ room, boardroom, and teaching spaces.

Wall infills in timber frame construction, featuring a light pine finish, establish a subtle contrast with the warmer-colored columns and beams. Skylights are incorporated to diffuse light, contributing to a warm and peaceful atmosphere. Externally, the shed shape harmonizes with the original classroom roof. Vertical wooden cladding enhances the extension’s visual appeal.

Despite the challenge of the school remaining operational during the renovation, the project was successfully completed within a single summer holiday. The architects meticulously planned the construction and utilized prefabricated components to overcome potential weather-related setbacks. The result is a renewed and future-proof school, where the design’s focus on sustainability is realized through strategic intervention and preservation.

the design prioritizes optimizing light, space, and air through thoughtful and circular intervention

wooden laminated construction introduces spacious, well-lit areas, housing key facilities

wall infills in timber frame, with a light pine finish, create a subtle contrast with warmer-colored beams

skylights are strategically incorporated to diffuse light, contributing to a warm atmosphere within the school

the renewed school structure showcases sustainability through strategic intervention and preservation

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front facade

construction process

exploded view

ground floor plan

first floor plan

project info:

name: Heemstede Primary School
architect: derksen|windt architecten | @derksen_windt_architecten

lead architects: Jeroen Derksen and David Windt

construction: De Groot Vroomshoop

prefabricated laminated wood: SIP Europe NL

prefabricated facades: Rodeca

location: Netherlands

photography: René de Wit | @architectuurfotograferen

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom