The extension of Edith Stein Vocational School was handed over to the users during a ceremonial event in the middle of March. The project originated in a realization competition won by Turkali Architekten in 2011.

Three additional new buildings, a room of silence, classrooms and a canteen complement the vocational school complex, which was originally built in the 1970s and extended multiple times in the 1980s. An internal school street connects the new buildings with one other and with the existing school complex.  

The room of silence constitutes the new long-distance imprint of the catholic institution: The 12-meter high tower represents an important landmark and is located opposite to the new canteen. The walls of the tower as well as the new buildings are made of whitewashed brick and ferroconcrete walls.

Daylight enters the interior in many different ways and creates various atmospheres: in the morning direct sunlight hits the narrow windows on the east side, in the evening twilight shimmers through the masonry walling or as a dim background light of the ceiling cross.

The new classroom addition adapts to the proportions and the design of the adjoining existing building.

The canteen is located on the west end of the premises and serves as a diverse event location. Large transparent facade glazing and a terrace open up various views into the stunning landscape.

The outdoor facilities are currently being worked on. The completion is planned for end of June 2017.

Photo: Christian Eblenkamp