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THE PLAN 156 is a special issue dedicated to educational architecture. The cover features the École Polytechnique education center in Palaiseau, France, designed by Sou Fujimoto Architects.
This issue opens with the editorial “On Continuity,” by Fabrizio Barozzi from the Barozzi Veiga architecture studio. He reflects on how educational experiences and local context have influenced his studio’s design approach. By interpreting existing elements and adding new forms, the studio’s projects seek a balance between history and innovation, emphasizing the uniqueness of places and preserving their identity. A harmonious integration of architecture and context typifies the studio’s work, as it seeks to transform existing spaces and materials into new architecture that respects and amplifies the original essence of a site.
In the Highlights column, Michael Webb talks about the Won Buddhist Temple in Wonnam, South Korea, designed by Minsuk Cho, founder of the Mass Studies studio. The temple, which harmoniously integrates into its complex urban setting, includes meditation and functional spaces that reflect Won’s progressive philosophy, while offering a new perspective on the relationship between architecture and spirituality.
In Stuttgart, Germany, Behnisch Architekten has designed new spaces for the Freie Waldorfschule Uhlandshöhe, a Waldorf school where founding partner Stefan Behnisch studied. The structure incorporates sustainable technologies, while preserving the original teaching principles.
Besides providing basic education, primary schools are essential for helping children develop a sense of community and belonging. Recently in Italy, they have become the focus of architectural experimentation, as exemplified by the expansion of a primary school in Travagliato by architecture practice PBeB to provide new functional spaces while respecting the history of the original building.
In Noida, India, the Healthy Planet School project, the work of vir.mueller architects, responds to its chaotic urban setting and the social contradictions of contemporary India by providing a protected, welcoming refuge that promotes a strong sense of community and belonging through well-designed spaces and the use of sustainable local materials.
The new Bush School in Seattle, designed by Mithun, harmoniously integrates with the historic Gracemont Hall and surrounding nature, creating an innovative model of an urban educational space that combines environmental sustainability, inclusiveness, and respect for historical and natural heritage.
GJÁI Kindergarten, designed by Henning Larsen on the Faroe Islands, is a nursery and kindergarten integrated into the natural landscape, with large windows and a green roof that promotes sustainability and provides comfort for the children.
The issue closes with the Conversation column, in which Philip Jodidio interviews Sou Fujimoto, an emerging Japanese architect who has distinguished himself for a creative approach inspired by nature and his childhood. Among the projects discussed is the prestigious École Polytechnique education center in Palaiseau, France.
THE PLAN 156 is a special issue dedicated to educational architecture. In the editorial, “Designing in Continuity,” Fabrizio Barozzi explains how educational experiences and local context have influenced his studio’s design approach. The issue ... Read More
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