Switzerland-based architectural firms Zwimpfer Partner Architekten and BBK Architekten partnered to create an interesting architectural extension to a Swiss school located in the village of Biel-Benken, near the city of Basel. The new architectural add-ons supplement the original buildings that were constructed 50 years ago.
The new sections of this Swiss school building feature concrete cores wrapped entirely in battens of wood with different depths, creating an interesting pattern across the building facades when viewed from different angles. In the architects' own words, "a rhythmic sequence of larch wood panels leads the eye along the exterior walls."
The wooden layer covers high windows that open on the west-facing wall of the gym, to ensure that the building isn't scorched in too much direct sunlight.
Slender Wooden Schools
These Swiss School's Design Features Slender Wooden Battens
Trend Themes
1. Slender Wooden Architecture - The use of wooden battens as a covering for concrete cores in buildings creates a new design element that can be applied in architecture and construction.
2. Rhythmic Sequences - The design technique of using a rhythmic sequence of layers to create a unique facade can be applied to various types of buildings, not just schools.
3. Sustainable Building Techniques - Using wood as a primary material in construction can help reduce a building's carbon footprint and promote sustainable building practices.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture and Construction - The use of wooden battens as a covering for concrete cores in buildings provides an opportunity for architects and builders to create unique and sustainable structures.
2. Education - The use of wooden battens on school buildings provides an opportunity to create visually interesting and sustainable structures that can inspire and promote eco-friendliness in education.
3. Sustainability - The use of wooden battens as a sustainable building material can be applied in various industries to promote environmentally friendly practices.