The two-storey building perfectly fits into the elongated trapezoidal plot, with a dynamic shape divided into a base and an upper storey that partially projects above it. The restrained long sides face the street and the Treppelweg, with a façade design reflecting functional occupancy and classroom arrangement. The covered driveway with the main entrance provides a focal point for clear orientation. In contrast, the front façades are distinguished by large openings and glazing.

To the north, and at right angles to the building's longitudinal axis, lies the gymnasium. To the south, a deep, weather-protected loggia offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Constructed partly in a skeleton framework but predominantly with prefabricated timber element Walls and Roofs, the building showcases wood's unique aura on interior walls. The timber cladding features a light glaze, and individual classrooms are accentuated with colour psychological concepts by Ernst Muthwill, serving as orientation aids for children.

In the stairwell, an art installation titled "Kunst am Bau" contrasts the strong colour accents in the classrooms with a light and dark relief-like work depicting various anthropomorphic figures on the staircase balustrade. The 2014 construction of the Centre for Inclusive and Special Education in St. Johann im Pongau focuses on progressive school concepts for children with special needs, offering them opportunities to develop their abilities in protected open spaces.

With barrier-free access, colourful interior accents, and terraces providing stunning mountain views, the new building becomes a place of well-being.

Measurements

Plot area: 3,008 m²
Gross floor area: 2,743 m²
Usable floor space: 2,163 m²
Converted space: 11,730 m³

Construction timeline

Competition: 10/2013 - 01/2014
Planning: 01/2014 - 04/2015
Execution: 10/2014 - 09/2015

Sustainability

Energy systems:Ventilation system with heat recovery, heat pump
Choice of materials: Timber construction, avoidance of PVC for windows, doors. 

The Sylva CLT elements generated 41 tonnes of greenhouse gases (CO₂e) to manufacture and 5 tonnes of CO₂e to transport from the mill in Bad St. Leonhard. Compared to the 593 tonnes of carbon dioxide that the trees removed while growing and will store in the building, this is a small fraction. Choosing Sylva CLT elements instead of non-renewables avoided 889 tonnes of greenhouse gases. (Source: Stora Enso Carbon Calculator. Try it out and see what how small the carbon footprint of your project would be too).

Project Team:

sps architekten, led by Simon Speigner, is renowned for its innovative and sustainable architectural solutions. Their projects, such as the Centre for Inclusion and Special Education in St. Johann im Pongau, exemplify their commitment to integrating modern design with environmental consciousness. By utilizing prefabricated timber elements and focusing on creating functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces, sps architekten has established itself as a leader in contemporary architecture. Their collaborative approach and attention to detail ensure that each project not only meets but exceeds client expectations, contributing to the architectural landscape with a blend of tradition and innovation.

Carpenters: Innovaholz GmbH, Niedernfritz; Locksmiths: Faistauer Schlosserei GmbH & Co KG, Maishofen; locksmith/glazier: Glas + Metall Weissofner GmbH & Co KG;
Windows: Lüftenegger GmbH, Tamsweg; Sun protection: Hella Sonnen
Local construction supervision: AIS bau- & projektmanagement GmbH, Andreas Mozelt
Lighting design / electrical: e+ engineering . engineering office . Sieberer GmbH
Building physics: Zivilingenieur ARGE, Wals-Siezenheim
Building services: Raumklima PlanungsgmbH, Mondsee
Electrical planning: e Engineering Ingenieurbüro Sieberer GmbH & Co KG, Altenmarkt im Pongau
Fire protection: Norbert Rabl ZT GmbH, Graz
Surveying: DI Josef Linsinger ZT GmbH, St. Johann im Pongau
Cultural engineering: Straschil & Anselmi ZT GmbH, Wals-Siezenheim

Learn more about this project: 

Initiative Architektur ZIS Zentrum für Inklusiv und Sonderpädagogik
ZIS St.Johann im Pongau - ConLignum ZT GmbH