New Education Building “Breiten”

A Harmonious Educational Environment in Affoltern am Albis The New Education Building “Breiten” is a thoughtfully designed educational facility located in the residential neighborhood of Affoltern am Albis, Switzerland. Designed by Kummer/Schiess Architekten, the building harmoniously integrates kindergartens, primary school classes, and after-school care facilities within a single structure. Its compact form respects the local urban fabric, adopting the typical building heights and dimensions of the area. The building is strategically positioned to organize the site effectively. To the north, a parking area accommodates staff vehicles and bicycles, while waste disposal facilities are discreetly integrated. The southern side offers an expansive outdoor space designed for school use, featuring various play areas and infrastructure that benefit from optimal sunlight exposure. The building's veranda serves as the primary vertical circulation, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor spaces. This design creates a welcoming entrance. The outdoor space includes a climbing tower, sand play area, edible garden, and a spacious lawn, all enclosed by a transparent fence that ensures safety without compromising the sense of openness. Inside, the building's layout is organized into individual classroom units, each with direct outdoor access. Shared spaces such as movement rooms and art studios complement the educational facilities. The building's structural system combines concrete and timber, optimizing its CO₂ footprint and allowing for future flexibility. Certified to Minergie-P-Eco standards, the building employs sustainable heating and ventilation systems, ensuring a comfortable indoor climate year-round.

Design Highlights

Compact form respecting local building heights and dimensions Southern orientation for optimal sunlight exposure Veranda as main vertical circulation and welcoming entrance Diverse outdoor play areas with safety features Flexible classroom units with shared movement rooms and art studios Sustainable construction with concrete and timber hybrid structure Minergie-P-Eco certification for energy efficiency

Key Facts