The design, which was awarded the "Scharoun Prize Lünen", is particularly impressive due to the sensitive urban integration of the new building into the existing context, which interlocks with the surrounding buildings and open spaces as a matter of course. By continuing to use the existing building during the construction period, it was possible to avoid an otherwise cost-intensive interim solution.
The building consists of three clearly structured wings that are grouped around a central core, which, in addition to an open forum area, offers a variety of recreational and self-study areas for the students. In addition to the representational capacity of an open, brightly designed entrance area with adjoining foyer and event area, the design impresses with the transparent and friendly design of the self-study areas on the upper floor, which, thanks to a generous opening above the foyer, allows a direct visual reference to the first floor and thus offers the pupils an optimal learning and recreational environment.
With regard to modern pedagogical cluster room concepts, the classic "corridor-classroom" architecture is broken up by a clearly structured column grid. By breaking up the solid corridor wall, a flexible and future-oriented floor plan is made possible. In addition to the simple typology of the classroom, the focus here is on inclusive learning in various learning and break areas. The corridor is therefore no longer just perceived as an access route, but as a place to stay and learn. This principle is complemented by a clear color concept, which should make it easier for students to find their way around the building and at the same time contribute to a more pleasant learning and working atmosphere.
The curtain wall made of light-colored facing brickwork, planting in front of the south façade and the full-surface green roof reduce excessive heating in the summer months. The activation of the storage mass of solid building components, the avoidance of composite building materials, the increased thermal insulation to KFW40 standard, the ventilation system with heat recovery and the photovoltaic system are intended to set new standards for modern and sustainable school construction. These ecological aspects are part of the in-house GreytoGreen label, are used in the design of the new Altlünen secondary school and are sensibly combined with each other.
