the ↑ school

Saint-Petersburg Mining University

Project idea

The building of the ↑ school is situated in St. Petersburg on quite a narrow and elongated site. So the specific feature of it is the horizontal extent. One of the most significant elements of the building is the gallery, which is created by the ramp system connecting all the floors. It symbolizes growth and a gradual transition from level to level (from the preparatory kindergarten group to the primary school, then to the middle school, and after to the high school).

It is due to the fact that each floor is given to a certain level of school education that the issue of flow separation is solved.

Project description

The building generally consists of three elements: monolithic central "public block" (1), that is surrounded by the light and reflective educational block (2), floating volumes of which are supported by a metal truss (3).

Educational blocks are adjacent to the heavy and monumental volume of public spaces (gym, canteen, library, assembly hall, swimming pool), embodying the importance and foundation of teamwork and interaction.

The issue of flow separation is solved due to the fact that each floor is given to a certain level of school education. For example, preparotory kindergarten groups are placed on the ground foor with an individual entrance. The same situation is with primary school on the first floor. The second & third floors are given to the middle and high school. Classroom division in blocks there is based on their belonging to certain scientific fields.

Ramp gallery along with 4 stairs are main communacitaion cores, which provide an access to all of the levels.

Technical information

The school is designed for 1100 students (which equals 44 classes). Total site area is 34 570 square meters. Total built-up area is 6 540 square meters. Total area of the school is 25 770 square meters. School building is not the only element on the site. Stadium, playgrounds, amphitheatre and public spots composed of gabions are also located there.

The main construction materials are reinforced concrete, glass, metal.