To develop the basis for the extension’s design and spatial layout, we – together with the client – worked in close cooperation with Hamburg-based architect and school construction consultant Kirstin Bartels. She advises both public and private educational institutions on the development of integrated spatial and pedagogical concepts as part of the “Phase Zero” process.

A series of workshops with teachers, students and school representatives laid the foundation for the ISS spatial programme. “A well-conducted Phase Zero is the key to successful school planning and a high-quality, sustainable implementation,” Bartels affirms.

The solid structure with an external thermal insulation composite system (ETICS) is visually softened by generous glazing, allowing natural light to flood the interiors to create a bright and transparent learning environment. The two upper floors open outwards, flowing seamlessly onto expansive terraces. A continuous pergola made of precast concrete elements connects both levels and defines the transition between indoor and outdoor spaces – sometimes serving as a balcony, sometimes as a protective frame element. Towards the street, this design feature becomes more pronounced, forming a prominent bay that extends across both upper levels and adds a vivid depth to the façade.

The new entrance on the eastern side opens up to the surrounding area as an urban forecourt, creating a welcoming gesture. The main entrance leads directly into the “new heart” of the campus – a spacious foyer conceived as an open meeting point and central hub of school life. The foyer provides access to the public areas: the Black Box Theatre, a multifunctional event space for performances, concerts, exhibitions and school festivals; as well as to creativity workshops, music and rehearsal rooms, a makerspace and the design cluster. The state-of-the-art IT team space underscores the building’s innovative spirit. The result is a forward-looking learning and living environment that combines functionality and identity.

A wide main staircase connects the foyer and the first floor, where the “school street” – the barrier-free main circulation area – connects the different parts of the building ensemble. All cluster levels are reached via the main stairwell in the south. These open learning clusters, each combining two to three classrooms with adjoining differentiation spaces to form autonomous learning studios, promote a modern teaching and learning culture.

At the centre of each cluster is an open, multifunctional area with direct views to the outdoors – the vibrant core of each cluster. Niches are designed as so-called “arenas” and “cosy corners”, offering pupils a variety of options for retreat and collaboration. “This design differs from traditional school layouts and, in line with the educational concept of the ‘learning landscape’, promotes open spatial structures that offer a wide range of uses and support both individual and cooperative learning,” explains architect Johannes Weiß. Direct access from each cluster to the terraces located in front further enhances this effect, as the learning environment is expanded to include additional spatial qualities.

Sustainability is also a key priority: solar panels supply the classrooms with energy, and a geothermal system ensures efficient heating. Controlled ventilation improves indoor air quality, and a planned vertical garden will boost the building’s environmental performance. Meeting the KfW55 energy standard minimises the energy consumption of the new building.

The entire architecture of the new building is shaped by a sense of spaciousness. Transparency, openness and visual connections create an inspiring learning environment. The open architecture emphasises the core values of ISS, which stands for an education that embraces cultural diversity and breaks down barriers. It focuses on flexibility and networking, with open learning clusters and generous open spaces creating a close connection between interior and exterior spaces. “This design supports an innovative learning culture and a dynamic, contemporary environment that encourages fresh perspectives and can be felt in every space,” concludes Johannes Weiß.

Project: Extension to the Internationale Schule Stuttgart, 4th construction phase
Client: International School of Stuttgart e.V.
Architecture: a+r Architekten, Stuttgart/Tübingen, www.aplusr.de

Construction period: 02.2022 – 05.2024
Completion: May 2024
GFA: 8,059 m²
GBV: 30,280 m³
Energy standard: KfW55
Photos: Max Leitner

Stuttgart, June 2025
Reproduction free of charge / specimen copy requested

a+r Architekten stand for solid, environmentally compatible and future-oriented architecture with impressive expertise in the field of sustainable building — also in existing building contexts. Founded in 1985 by Professor Gerd Ackermann and Professor Hellmut Raff, the office with branches in Stuttgart and Tübingen has around 130 employees and is today headed by Oliver Braun, Florian Gruner and Alexander Lange. a+r Architekten mainly build for public clients, industry and commerce, municipal housing companies and social institutions. The office focuses on appropriate, ecological, functional and the resulting innovative construction methods and has been awarded prestigious prizes for this approach.

www.aplusr.de

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