La escuela en la colina - Escuela Dybkær

Dybkær Skole aims to connect the historical Silkeborg landscape with the town of Gødvad through an innovative new schoolyard. Inspired by the rolling hills of the region, Dybkær Skole hosts 800 students and 90 teachers. The complex is situated at the top of Gødvad Hill, a part of the valley system that encompasses nearby Silkeborg and its many lakes.

Vega brings the regional landscape into the schoolyard with a repeating motif of undulating terrain. The terrain works together with biodiverse planting to create rich sensory experiences, while blooming native plants connect to the region’s ecology. The schoolyard includes climate-adaptive bioswales which provide opportunities for play and learning as well as habitat for insects. This nature-based solution also helps retain and filter water in increasingly heavy rain events. Plumbing under these swales allows the school to control the water level. This focus on biodiversity has a significant impact on the town’s ecology.

The schoolyard has three activity zones. Close to the entrances are outdoor classroom spaces. Farther out, high energy zones encourage play and socialization. At the periphery, surrounded by nature, children can rest and reflect. Everything is connected by “Highway 1”, a narrow wooden deck twining through the schoolyard that playfully draws students out from the building into the activity zones.

Dybkær Skole also serves as an important part of the new town square. Located close to the city center, the school connects directly to the town’s sports hall. These two buildings frame the new city center, Gødvad Square, a generous activity zone with play areas and places to sit.

The result is a diverse schoolyard with a strong positive impact on city life in Gødvad, encouraging community and inviting the nature of the region into the school. Site visits found playing on Highway 1, with the new trees and shrubs growing beautifully.

The Dybkær Skole project creates a vibrant community hub, exemplifying SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by integrating the local landscape with climate-adaptive, biodiverse spaces. Its diverse activity zones foster SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being and enhance SDG 4: Quality Education through outdoor learning and play. The inclusive design ensures SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities and SDG 5: Gender Equality, providing accessible and engaging environments for all students and community members

This design effectively addresses issues like urban-nature disconnection, limited outdoor learning, and stormwater management through sustainable and inclusive approaches, promoting well-being and environmental stewardship for all.