Laugalaekjarskoli secondary school extension / Studio Granda

Architects: Studio Granda
Location: Reykjavík, Iceland
Client: City of Reykjavík
Structural Engineers: VSÓ
Electrical Engineers: VJÍ
Contractor: Trésmiðjan Borg
Service Engineers: VGK
Project Year: 2004
Photographs: Studio Granda

Two identical, three storey, school buildings built in the 60’s are connected by this new extension. To reduce the visual impact of the new building the connection to the existing structures is at lower ground floor level and the site is extended over part of the roof to link the original entrances and play areas on each side of the school complex. This landscape concept is reinforced by the use of grass on the upper roof surfaces.

The new external skin reflects the zinc and painted render of the neighborhood buildings and a subtle twist of the roof hints at the special geometry present in their architecture. Internally the twist mediates between the different functions of the plan. From a lofty hall the ceiling tapers down via a voluminous entrance and ends in a horizontally accented library. In counterpoint the central connecting corridor is double height with a series of generous roof lights and windows revealing glimpses of sky and activity on the upper walkway. Internal surfaces continue the original material palette of linoleum, oak and glossy paint.