sustainable adaptation

Huygens Lyceum, Eindhoven

The Huygens Lyceum in Eindhoven has undergone a complete transformation. This secondary school, once plagued by technical limitations, poor indoor climate, and space constraints, now boasts an entirely new building. At the same location where the old lyceum once stood, a contemporary secondary school with high-quality sports facilities now stands.

Photography: Mike Bink

Function:
secondary school & sports facilities

Client:
Stichting Eindhovens Christelijk Voortgezet Onderwijs (SECVO) & Huygens Lyceum

Location:
Eindhoven

Year:
2022

Status:
in use

In close collaboration with the Huygens Lyceum, the architectural firm DAT has made the preliminary design. This design seamlessly aligns with the 'deep learning' educational concept of Michael Fullan, focusing on personalized and project-based learning. At LIAG, we took the initiative to ensure the sustainability and eco-friendliness of the building. Moreover, we gave special emphasis to improving the overall well-being of both students and staff.

"The Huygens Lyceum was functionally and technically outdated. It had undergone multiple renovations in the past 60 years and still had an oil-fired system. Renovation was considered, but ultimately not an option."
Martin van den Berg, SECVO

A healthy learning and working environment
The development of the Huygens Lyceum focused not only on providing a pleasant learning environment for students but also on creating a space where teachers enjoy working. Emphasis was placed on establishing a healthy indoor environment. Research confirms that good air quality, the right temperature, pleasant acoustics, and ample daylight not only enhance students' academic performance but also reduce teacher absenteeism.

We create healthy buildings. In addition, we prioritize functionality and overall experience. The atrium serves as the vibrant heart of the building, as a lively meeting place. Here, the boundaries between indoors and outdoors seamlessly blend. The glass roof welcomes ample natural light. Glass facades provide views of the park. And the presence of large plants and natural materials gives the space a delightful atmosphere.

"The atrium is truly an eye-catcher, just like the learning pit. You can use the pit for instruction or smaller gatherings. The place is more intimate than the large auditorium."
Loes Corbeij, Huygens Lyceum

Sustainability at every level
We build sustainable buildings, employing visible and invisible measures such as demountable structures, timber-framed facades, larch for finishing, and recycled paper for acoustics. Additional interventions, including PV panels on the roof, an underground WKO system, excellent insulation, and energy-efficient climate control, make the building nearly energy-neutral.

At LIAG, we often go the extra mile, as seen in this project. One of the three building sections is clad with charred bamboo, a newly developed, biobased material meeting strict requirements for educational facilities, including fire class B and low maintenance. Our pioneering work with producers has led to the necessary certifications to introduce this bamboo cladding in the Netherlands.

A green school campus
Climate adaptation is crucial in this project. The site incorporates various blue-green solutions, including rain gardens and an outdoor pit. TThis pit serves as one of the meeting places where students sit during breaks. Simultaneously, it functions as water storage and contributes to environmental awareness. It is one of the measures to make the site resilient to heavy rainfall. Additionally, the grounds are designed with 'effective' greenery, particularly near bicycle and car parking areas, retaining rainwater and reducing heat during warm days.

"In the end, it's about the small, smart, and sustainable choices you make along the way. Together, they make an impact."
Peter Donkers, LIAG architects + engineers

Partners:
DAT (voorlopig ontwerp)

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