Signed and sealed
The city of Zurich is serious. In September 2022, the electorate voted very clearly in favor of a comprehensive day school. Numerous current planning selection processes and competitions are now aimed at expanding the school’s room offerings. Within the framework of renovation and new construction projects the additionally required catering and recreation areas will be provided. The Liguster secondary school in Zurich-Oerlikon is also gearing up for the start of day school in the 2027/2028 school year. The attic floor of the listed gymnasium building (built in 1930) is to be converted into a childcare room for around 100 young people. In addition, other repair and remodeling measures are planned for the building and the school grounds.
The proposal by Darlington Meier Architects won the planning selection process, which focused on the design of the care room.
The design calls for largely preserving the striking load-bearing concrete structure of the existing roof truss. Between the two rows of columns, a central hall is created in the middle of the floor, from which all other rooms are accessed. A new west-facing dormer improves the lighting situation, and the roof areas are being upgraded for energy efficiency. “The project approach has the least depth of intervention in comparison and specifically creates qualities with significant added value for the school.” summed up the jury.
The structural engineers from Lüchinger+Meyer involved expect a wide range of tasks as part of the overall project: The planning of the 3m-high lowering of the lower gymnasium and new basements under the existing rooms, the verification of earthquake safety, as well as the concrete renovation and any upgrades to the concrete structure. Work is expected to be completed by 2027.
(Visualisation: Darlington Meier Architects)
