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Article from issue 6/2009 »Stairs, Ramps«

Secondary School in Copenhagen

documentation p. 620 - 624
Architect 3XN | Structural Engineer Søren Jensen |

Drafts
1:20 Sectional details
1:200 Plan of island for recreation
1:750 Floor plans
1:750 Section

The cubic external form of this school gives no hint of the unusual layout internally, where flowing spaces and curved staircases reflect the openness and flexibility of a new learning concept. Here, access areas and functional zones merge to form a single space for communication and movement. Around the central spiral staircase offset segments of the floors are cut out on each level to create a continuous, light-filled space that winds up from storey to storey. Pupils are grouped in teams or can use the corner zones for individual learning. The few classrooms are lined up along the glazed facades. In contrast, circular islands have been created for learning, group discussions and recreational purposes.