The new building for Goumoens Elementary School responds to the ongoing influx and densification of the districts of Weissenbühl, Mattenhof, Weissenstein, and Sulgenbach. The chosen site is an established location, closely connected to the surrounding neighborhoods through its diverse uses. It is framed by the impressive scenery of the Steinholzliwald to the west and south. The heterogeneous yet equally remarkable stock of trees along the perimeter represents a significant quality of the site, one that is worth preserving.

The existing buildings appear as temporary structures within the landscape. The spirit of the unfinished pervades the site, lending it a special character of openness, participation, and inclusion.

Our proposal seeks to respect, enhance, and further develop these qualities. The new building occupies an existing clearing, thereby preserving as many trees and as much open space as possible. At the same time, it emerges as an independent urban building block, clearly legible as a public institution.

The organization of the building follows the idea of a compact, efficient structure that achieves maximum quality with a minimal footprint. The sports and school areas are stacked vertically and connected by a centrally placed, highly efficient circulation core.

Above a solidly constructed base rises a four-story wooden skeleton structure. Two-story wooden lattice girders span the sports hall, shaping both the beletage and the ground floor.

The beletage forms the true heart of the school. With its generous ceiling height, it houses key communal spaces such as the multipurpose hall, dining areas, and leisure rooms. Their open orientation fosters adaptability and overlapping uses. This level is further extended by a three-meter-deep, continuous terrace. In the warmer months, external stairs and ramps allow the school to connect seamlessly with the surrounding green spaces on all sides.