In the state of Salzburg, Pfarrwerfen is one of the fastest-growing populations in Austria. To accommodate the increasing number of youngsters, the community needed to expand their 1969 schoolhouse quickly, sustainably, and within budget.

The Pfarrwerfen Primary School underwent a significant remodelling and extension project to transform it into a multifunctional centre on Kronberger Platz. The decision to retain the school in its central location was pivotal, serving as the foundation for redesigning the square into an orderly shared space that includes traffic areas, a car park, festival and event sites, and open spaces for the school. This redesign aimed to create a cohesive and vibrant community hub with ample greenery and reduced sealed surfaces.

Challenges and Sylva™ solutions

One of the primary challenges was expanding the usable area from 4 to 8 classes within the cramped square and close proximity to neighbouring buildings. Additionally, the project required adapting the existing school structure from a traditional corridor/classroom layout to a large, open teaching area. To address these challenges, the design incorporated synergies and multiple uses of space. For instance, the roof of the deeply buried gymnasium was repurposed as an open space for mobile breaks, and the sunken inner courtyard provided access and an atrium for the music club, gymnasium, cloakrooms, and storage rooms. This courtyard also serves as the entrance area for external use of the school building.

Design

The goal was to seamlessly merge the existing building with the new extension, creating a unified structure while preserving the identity of the original time slots. Innovative spaces were introduced, such as the seating steps of the auditorium on the upper floor that extend into the foyer and classrooms that blend into the corridor areas. A notable feature is the integration of a fresco of the freedom fighter Sieberer, originally on the outer façade, into the design of the assembly hall. This historical element is complemented with contemporary commentaries, bridging the past and present.

Sustainability

The project emphasized sustainability through the reuse of the existing building and extensive use of wood, both visibly and constructively. This approach not only reduced the carbon footprint but also enhanced the quality of the interior spaces. The school utilized Sylva™ CLT Floors and Roofs, and Sylva™ CLT Stairs, known for their durability and low emissions to manufacture. The total product volume used was 30 m³ and generated only 2 tonnes of greenhouse gases to manufacture. It was delivered over three shipments within one week.

Text adapted from the architect’s description