School Schnegg in Nafels | 2021

A Functional and Contextual Design
The urban setting of the school building reflects the contrasting surroundings to the east and west of the plot. To the west, it aligns with the industrial area near Obererlen, the Linth River, and the railway line, establishing a clear relationship with these elements. On the east, the centrally placed sports hall resonates with the nearby Rastenhoschet residential park, estate, and Schnegg gymnasium. The low height of the linear building ensures uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountains.

Architecture
The simple urban design translates into a clear, flexible interior organization. The centrally located sports hall serves as a pivotal node, structuring the building’s layout. The northern structure houses primary school facilities, while the southern section is dedicated to the kindergarten, each with separate entrances and outdoor spaces. These are linked by communal rooms adjacent to the sports hall.

The primary school’s main entrance, located centrally, opens into a foyer offering a direct view of the sports hall and the green space by the stream. The foyer, positioned near the library and multi-purpose hall, doubles as an exhibition or event venue. This symmetrical layout makes the sports hall a central “roundabout” providing clear access to all interior and exterior spaces. Its transparent design connects indoor activities with the outdoor environment, enhancing the sense of openness.

The primary school on the first floor spans the entire level, with a central teachers’ area directly accessible from the entrance hall. Classrooms and group rooms are symmetrically arranged, creating a “learning boulevard” with varied open-plan areas. The space is divided into independent clusters, adaptable for diverse uses and accessible from outside when needed.

Structural and Aesthetic Design
The building is supported by a systematic column grid, giving it a clear architectural rhythm. The façade, featuring timber cladding inspired by local shingle patterns, harmonizes with the construction grid while adding a playful touch. The façade conceals the storey structure, arousing curiosity—a fitting feature for an educational space.

Construction
The underground ancillary rooms, including the gymnasium floor slab, are built with waterproof in-situ concrete, at least 300 mm thick. The two upper storeys use a timber-concrete composite system with steel girders embedded in the structure for unobstructed corridors. Beech beams are employed for larger spans, defining the corridor space.

Category:Schools and UniversitiesLocation:Nafels, Glarus, SwitzerlandArchitect: Maciej Sokolnicki, PolandDesign Team: MS86A Maciej Sokolnicki Architect, maku.studio Marcin KurdzielPhotographer: Courtesy of the Architects