Extensions with distinct qualities

Skolen ved Sundet has been expanded from three to four parallel streams and now has a new lower secondary school building, a new after-school club and new EAT (Occupational Therapy Work Training) and specialist subject rooms. The aim of the expansion has been to create a child-friendly, contemporary school that complements the main building – in its details, material selection and colour palette – while fostering a fundamental sense of community.

Since the school's construction in 1938 by architect Kaj Gottlob, student numbers in the local area have increased, and the school's facilities have gradually become overcrowded. The new buildings stand as discrete structures adjacent to the listed main school building, which is considered an architectural masterpiece and has recently been renovated. All functions that could operate below ground have been sunken, preserving respect for the listed main school building. The extension has thus been carried out with great consideration for the listed building and the architectural qualities of the site.

Both the lower secondary school building and the after-school club have been designed with a focus on daylight, creating bright and welcoming spaces. Variations in spatial experience are achieved through architectural features like corner windows, skylights and high windows, lending the buildings a light and open character.

Brilliant acoustics on all floors

The lower secondary school building has three floors, each dedicated to different subject areas. The ground floor primarily houses science classrooms and common areas for project work. A wide staircase leads to the upper floor, where the more humanistic subjects are located. Here, too, there are well-designed common areas for concentration or group work. The basement level houses music rooms, movement spaces and school meal kitchens. An amphitheatre-style staircase connects the basement level to the school grounds, additionally enabling events such as outdoor concerts.

Despite the variety of spaces, a strong visual continuity has been achieved using consistent materials, particularly wood, which has been used for windows, flooring and wall panelling – complemented by white-painted Troldtekt ceiling panels. At the same time, the lighting is neatly integrated into the ceilings, creating a pleasant sense of continuity.