special education school schwechat

architectural concept
the building design primarily responds to two parameters: the special requirements for disabled young people and the site's high exposure to aircraft and road noise. to the south, a conservatory is placed in front of the classrooms, workshops and staff rooms to provide sound insulation and climate control. shading elements that can be moved at roof level allow the amount of sunlight in these areas to be controlled. on both floors, this spatial zoning is extended by screened terrace areas.

as a symbol of natural, positive interaction with physical disabilities and to promote self-acceptance through movement, the gym is placed at the centre of the building as an open space. a flat embankment with seating steps leads to the lowest level of the gym, connecting the adjoining garden with the school's communal areas. the hall can be used as a central meeting place, theatre forum and for school celebrations. a dedicated planting garden promotes a connection to nature and a sense of responsibility. the levels are accessed via glazed cascade staircases along the east and west façades of the building.

circulation and natural light
in addition to the generous façade glazing, corridors and main rooms receive sunlight through ribbon windows in the roof. glazed floor panels in the corridors and conservatories direct sunlight through all room levels into the core areas of the building.