White Oslo wins parallel commission for new school and pre-school at Ballerud

In our proposal, great emphasis has been placed on solving the assignment in a holistic way, focusing on connections in and around the school and the hall. The design of the school aims to create added value in the neighbourhood, beautiful and accessible outdoor spaces for all-round use and to enhance the biodiversity of the site.

The school in solid wood will be attractively located next to an existing recreational area. The schoolyard has a beautiful south-facing orientation, which provides a great environment for outdoor activity. The design also includes a multi-purpose hall, which will be partly underground and integrated with the surrounding landscape.

– In the schoolyard we have chosen varied functions and division into zones that utilize and preserve natural qualities, natural elements, and the varied terrain on the site, said Gina Bast Mossige.

In the parallel commission, the municipality required the project to meet FutureBuilt’s urban design and architecture criteria for biodiversity and stormwater management. The blue-green structure of the area is to be strengthened according to overall guidelines through the establishment of blue-green spaces. The blue-green structure will strengthen local biodiversity, make the area resilient to climate change, contribute to cleaner air, water and soil, a good local climate and high amenity value.

On the north-western part of the site, a public square will be built, inviting visitors and residents to co-use the school’s outdoor environments and to take an active part in the school’s functions and facilities even after school hours.