Gearing International School of Debrecen

Press Kit

Unique Properties

The conceptual circle shape of the International School of Debrecen (I S D) symbolizes protection, unity and community. The different functions appear like pavilions on a string, arranged on an arc. The fragmentation of space creates a variety of community areas between the classrooms. The novel space experience and the constant presence of nature help students in creative thinking and manifesting their ideas. The pathways leading to the offsite educational gardens and the forest complete the circle concept creating an exciting transition between the built and natural environment.

Dimensions & Packaging

Sum net area: 7400 m2
Capacity: 500 students

Tags

ISD, education, high school, Debrecen, pulsing spaces, simplicity, ring, arc of a circle, pavilon-like classrooms, permeated by light

Production Technology

Our energy efficiency concept contains surface heating and cooling with lower risk of allergic conditions, natural ventilation of the aisle area of the upper floor, geothermal heating of the gym by sinking it 5 metres lower than ground level, rainwater recovery by infiltration basins so water is released into the soil instead of the drain system, with regards to the neighbouring Natura 2000 protected forest. We believe smart designed energy gained straight and gently from nature is the highest efficiency mechanical equipment.

Design Challenge

Throughout the planning phase, the biggest challenge was to create a modern and extraordinary looking building that blends in with its outstanding environment and at the same time meets the needs of the educational standards of the International School of Debrecen (I S D) and has an accentuated role in urban development.

Inspiration

The circle with its simplicity is traditionally a spontaneous form of human gathering. It is a space without divisions or differentiations, a symbol of community. The circle symbol is a true expression of the mission of the school, the first and foremost aim of which is to build an open-minded, emphatic, helpful and responsibly thinking future community. The shaping of the volumes and spaces highlight the worthy presence of natural environment and encourage inventive teaching and learning.

Project Duration

After winning the design contest of the International School of Debrecen (I S D) in June 2017, the planning phase started in September 2017 and finished within an unusually short period of time in February 2018. The handover of the construction site took place in June 2018 and the building has been completed in the Summer of 2019. The International School of Debrecen opened its doors to its first students on 1st Sept 2019.

Operation Flow

We asked teachers and students how the interior spaces influence their everydays, their answer was beyond our expectation:

The spaces are a great deal helpful in education as it does not stop in the classrooms, it happens in the hubs hiding in the wave-like aisles, sitting on top of the pyramid facing the entrance, outside in the yard and all the way to the forest. Everything supports learning and wellbeing of children, the ample spaces are full of natural light. With its gestures and appearance the building already reaches over its own built boundaries since within its walls enthusiasm, curiosity and smile are boundless.

Image Credits

Main image: Photographer Gyorgy Palko
Optional Image #1: Photographer Gyorgy Palko
Optional Image #2: Photographer Anna Illes
Optional Image #3: Photographer Anna Illes
Optional Image #4: Photographer Anna Illes
Video Credits: Infographic Designer Donat Ertsey and Photographer Gyorgy Palko