It is a building from the late 1990s and early 2000s. Thanks to the thermomodernisation, the pupils now have a building with a new quality. Also visually. The metamorphosis of the Domaniów school was designed by architects from the PORT studio.
This story proves that thermal modernisation does not have to be a purely technical matter, but an opportunity to implement innovation and aesthetics. A chance to revitalise a space. This was the case with the design of the Domaniów Primary School, which was realised with great attention to detail, an understanding of users’ needs and in the spirit of contemporary architectural solutions.
The architects prepared a comprehensive design for changes that went beyond the standard approach to modernisation. The school is not old, but it required solutions that would have a positive impact on its energy efficiency. Built in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the building is based on four wings, each with a distinct function and designed for a specific age group of pupils. The central section contains the main corridor, administration rooms and two entrances.
The form of the building, despite, very good spatial assumptions, began to require revitalisation both aesthetically and functionally, reorganising the use of the rooms, adapting and improving architectural details, improving aesthetics. Thermomodernisation provided the impulse and opportunity for change, raising the profile of the school as a local centre for education and community life, the architects admit.
What has changed? The building now has a simple, bright façade, complemented by a contemporary canopy. The entrance areas, which have become the school’s showpiece, have been redesigned. The building has gained solutions for people with disabilities. As part of the thermal modernisation, the heat source and heating installations were replaced, new lighting was installed and a mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery was designed.
Pupils can now enjoy a variety of relaxation and quiet zones in the corridors. These spaces have been designed to promote regeneration during breaks between lessons. The interior aesthetics are a revolution. Visual stimuli have been reduced, creating a space conducive to concentration. The space is now decorated with natural finishing materials like plywood. There is also an interactive floor to encourage play and movement, a boxing bag or rocking chairs.
The design team, comprising architects, interior designers and specialists in children’s needs, took a holistic view of the building. The author team also included architects from outside the studio Paweł Panek and Alicja Dziedziela (interiors) and Michał Czeszejko (façade design). This resulted in a design that takes into account neurodiversity, the needs of children with disabilities and the requirements of teachers.
The school in Domaniów is proof that a well-designed space can become an integral part of the educational process. Minimalist interiors, differentiated learning and play areas, and a calming colour scheme harmonise with the dynamics of school life.
design: PORT Architects
Read also: Metamorphosis | Education | Minimalism | Facade | Minimalism | whiteMAD on Instagram
