Founded in 1985, the ISS is home to more than 800 students from over 45 countries, making it a vibrant example of lived internationalism. This cosmopolitan approach is also reflected in the school’s architecture: the Degerloch campus features open spaces designed to foster intercultural exchange and collaborative learning. The new extension we designed underscores the school’s commitment to a future-oriented educational environment.
The four-storey new building for the International School of Stuttgart (ISS) complements the Degerloch campus as a connecting element between the existing school buildings, which we also designed and implemented in 2001 and 2012. While the southern part of the new structure continues the existing building line, the northern section is terraced and slightly set back. This layout creates an inviting urban forecourt to the east, while the west side is complemented by sports and schoolyard areas. A distinctive external staircase accentuates the architectural rhythm and connects the different levels, while also functioning as a second escape route.
A foundation for the spatial and pedagogical concept
To develop the basis for the extension’s design and spatial layout, we – together with the client – worked in close cooperation with Hamburg-based architect and school construction consultant Kirstin Bartels. She advises both public and private educational institutions on the development of integrated spatial and pedagogical concepts as part of the “Phase Zero” process. In several workshops with teachers, pupils and school representatives, a tailored spatial programme was drawn up for the ISS.
Transparency and transition
The solid construction with an external thermal insulation composite system (ETICS) is visually softened by generous glazing, creating a bright and transparent learning environment. The two upper floors open outwards, flowing seamlessly onto expansive terraces. A continuous pergola made of precast concrete elements connects both levels and defines the transition between indoor and outdoor spaces – sometimes serving as a balcony, sometimes as a protective frame element. Towards the street, this design feature becomes more pronounced, forming a prominent bay that extends across both upper levels and adds a vivid depth to the façade.
The heart of the campus
The school’s new entrance on the eastern side opens up to the surrounding area as an urban forecourt, creating a welcoming gesture. The main entrance leads directly into the “new heart” of the campus – a spacious foyer conceived as an open meeting point and central hub of school life. The foyer provides access to the public areas: the Black Box Theatre, a multifunctional event space for performances, concerts, exhibitions and school festivals; as well as to creativity workshops, music and rehearsal rooms, a makerspace and the design cluster. The state-of-the-art IT team space further emphasises the building’s innovative spirit. The result is a forward-looking learning and living environment that combines functionality and identity.
Innovative learning clusters
A wide main staircase leads from the foyer to the first floor, where the “school street” – the barrier-free main circulation area – connects the different parts of the building ensemble. A staircase to the south provides central access to all learning cluster levels. These open clusters support a modern teaching and learning culture. Each cluster combines two to three classrooms with adjoining differentiation spaces to form autonomous learning ateliers. At their centre is an open, multifunctional area with direct views to the outdoors – the vibrant core of each cluster. Niches are designed as so-called “arenas” and “cosy corners”, offering pupils a variety of options for retreat and collaboration. This design differs from conventional school layouts and, in line with the educational concept of the “learning landscape”, promotes open spatial structures that offer a wide range of uses and support both individual and cooperative learning. Direct access from each cluster to the terraces located in front further enhances this effect, as the learning environment is expanded to include additional spatial qualities.
Energy-efficient technologies
Sustainability is also a key priority: solar panels supply the classrooms with energy, and a geothermal system ensures efficient heating. Controlled ventilation improves indoor air quality, and a planned vertical garden will boost the building’s environmental performance. Meeting the KfW55 energy standard minimises the energy consumption of the new building.
Architecture as a space for diversity and innovation
The overall architecture of the new building is shaped by a sense of spaciousness. Transparency, openness and visual connections create an inspiring learning environment. The open architecture emphasises the values of ISS, which stands for an education that embraces cultural diversity and breaks down barriers. It focuses on flexibility and networking, with open learning clusters and generous open spaces creating a close connection between interior and exterior spaces.
