Georg · Scheel · Wetzel

Description

The figure of the Institution for the Blind Foundation interprets on the one hand the existing landscape and topographic situation, on the other it translates the very discriminate organizational-functional requirements of the users into a structural shape. The institution cares for severely visually impaired and physically disabled children who depend on a barrier-free navigation of the premises. Therefore, new single-floor school areas were created, stepping up the slope in small graduation and protruding – with interjacent intimate courts – like fingers into the landscape. 

As part of a built-up topography, a unique space for experiences for the children is created. The employed materials refer to the opposite structure with light exposed concrete and green-grey burnt brick. The raised polygonal forecourt – as point of reference at the border of city and landscape – becomes the urban “foyer” of the school. The main entries of the complex, where the children are taken by bus, are situated level to the slightly ascending plateau, matching the topography. From there, the respective school sections are accessed as well as the great corridor, which ascends via ramps. The internal organization creates a straightforward system of orientation, which works with hierarchically-related paths. It is supported by the natural light conditions and by the experience of the topography in the house: The hillside becomes the crucial organizational criterion.