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Kindergarten and Primary School De Windwijzer Kalken

Construction of a Kindergarten and Primary School

A contemporary school environment, designed for the future.
Customer
MUNICIPALITY OF LAARNE
Building place
Kalken, Belgium
Type of building
Sport and education
Sector
Public sector, Education
Floor space of the building
4 035 m² (total area of the site)
Project sheet
De Windwijzer Kalken - Photography: Skyshoots
De Windwijzer Kalken - Photography: Skyshoots
For De Windwijzer Primary School in Kalken, we designed a new school environment that brings together functionality, architecture and quality of life. The existing infrastructure was outdated and no longer adequately responded to the school’s current and future needs. The new building accommodates nursery, kindergarten and primary education, administrative functions, as well as an integrated sports hall and multipurpose space.

A key principle of the design was the careful integration of the new building within its existing context. The historic schoolmaster’s house, dating from 1877, and the existing refectory and sports hall were preserved. The new architecture was carefully designed in dialogue with these existing buildings.

The light-coloured brickwork, white exterior joinery and subtle colour accents give the building a contemporary character. At the same time, the new covered playground, with its reddish-brown brickwork and clay roof tiles, connects naturally with the existing character of the site.

Light, space and connection are central to the new school environment. The façades facing the playground and public car park are generously opened up to maximise natural daylight. A more enclosed western façade, meanwhile, provides the necessary privacy towards the neighbouring homes. External screens on the southern and eastern façades contribute to a comfortable indoor climate.

The outdoor space was conceived as an integral part of the design. The playground offers a variety of opportunities for sports, play, social interaction and outdoor learning, with a sports field, a green play area and an outdoor classroom.

Sustainability is an integral part of the project. Permeable paving allows rainwater to infiltrate directly into the ground, while rainwater is collected and reused for applications including sanitary facilities.
Accessibility and long-term flexibility were also incorporated into the design from the outset.

With De Windwijzer, we have created a sustainable and future-oriented learning environment that respects the existing qualities of the site while creating space for a new generation of pupils.

ABETEC was responsible for architecture, structural engineering, techniques, infrastructure and EPB-reporting.