
A modern school building with large windows and a flat roof, surrounded by greenery and a tall residential building in the background.
Story
A Harmonious Integration of Modern Education and Architecture Bethlehemacker School in Bern, designed by Meier Leder Architekten, is a testament to the harmonious integration of new construction within an existing architectural framework. The school stands out for its thoughtful composition of outdoor spaces and volume-defining buildings. The new construction complements this setting, completing it into a cohesive whole. The versatile floor plan is tailored to support modern pedagogical concepts, with daycare facilities and a library on the ground floor providing valuable public services to the neighborhood. Classrooms are situated on the upper floor beneath a distinctive roof landscape, where four classes form a cluster used as a learning landscape. This space is enhanced by a specific atmosphere created by the skylight, offering a unique educational environment. A double staircase at the center of the building creates a striking spatial connection, while interior glazing allows for extended vistas and spatial expansions. The building envelope respects the proportions of the pavilion structures, with tectonics organized through a mix of prefabricated and cast-in-place elements. The escape balconies, which stagger the facades, provide a dynamic play of shadows, adding depth and interest to the building's exterior.
## Design Highlights
Integration with existing architectural framework Versatile floor plan supporting modern education Distinctive roof landscape with skylight-enhanced learning clusters Central double staircase offering spatial connectivity Use of prefabricated and cast-in-place elements for structural diversity Staggered escape balconies creating a dynamic facade
## Key Facts
| Key Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Bern, Switzerland |
| Architect | Meier Leder Architekten |
| Year of Completion | 2023 |
| Program | Educational |
| Structural System | Prefabricated and cast-in-place elements |
| Notable Features | Skylight, double staircase |
Technical Summary
Finishes
- interior: Wooden beams and tiled flooring in classrooms and hallways.
Materials
- glass — windows and interior glazing
- concrete — building envelope and structural elements
- wood — interior beams and elements
Construction / Systems
- prefabricated and cast-in-place: The building uses a combination of prefabricated and cast-in-place elements for its construction.
Products
- Not specified
Palette / Lighting
- Colors: light-colored facade, natural wood tones
- Lighting: natural light through large windows and skylights
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