School De Hagewinde Roeselare
Concept
For school De Hagewinde in Roeselare, laagland architecten designed an extension comprising additional classrooms and a new multipurpose hall. The new volumes adopt a dynamic architectural language, characterised by a combination of pitched and flat roofs. This varied roofscape enhances the spatial quality of the rooms it accommodates and gives the new extension a distinctive sense of dynamism.
The existing buildings will be renovated in a subsequent phase. All volumes will be linked through a continuous circulation system, while the layout of the various existing rooms will be reorganised into a more logical arrangement, ensuring improved accessibility throughout the school.
Massing
The design of the extension’s massing takes its cues from the existing buildings on the site. The new school building consists of two double-height volumes with pitched roofs. These are connected to each other and to the existing buildings by two lightweight connecting volumes topped with green roofs.
By dividing the building into separate volumes, its overall mass is reduced, allowing it to relate more closely to the scale and rhythm of the existing buildings on the site. The open connecting volumes also create new sightlines and contribute to a clear and legible floor plan.
Ground Floor
The multipurpose hall is located on the ground floor. It has a separate entrance via a lobby that also provides access to the dining hall. Depending on the size of the event, the dining hall can be incorporated into the multipurpose space. Two doors also provide a direct connection to the playground.
The boys’ toilet facilities are accommodated in a separate volume, with direct access from the playground. The entire ground floor is sheltered by a large canopy, creating a covered playground that serves the entire school building.
First Floor
The first floor of the extension accommodates additional teaching spaces, comprising three standard classrooms and one small teaching kitchen. The two south-facing classrooms can be combined, allowing for collaborative activities and teaching across class groups.
The corridors are generously proportioned so that they can also serve as additional working areas. This provides sufficient space for pupils to work individually when needed.
An outdoor staircase leading to the covered playground can be accessed via a terrace. This allows pupil circulation to be distributed between the existing buildings and the new extension during peak periods.
Materials
The material palette of the building is conceived as a contemporary interpretation of the existing architecture. The façades are finished in clean, white brickwork, while the concrete edge of the canopy visually unifies the entire building.
The roof is finished with oxide-red, factory-coated corrugated steel sheets laid on gently pitched roof planes. The connecting volumes are clad in oxide-red corrugated steel, distinguishing them from the white brickwork of the two main volumes.
The interior is restrained in its design, featuring white walls and ceilings finished with wood-wool cement panels. The linoleum flooring echoes the warm tone of natural timber. Oxide-red built-in furniture and interior joinery provide a striking accent throughout these spaces.
