custom design and solutions

Keizer Karel College, Amstelveen

The Keizer Karel College - or KKC - is embarking on a new chapter in its 65-year history with this large-scale renovation and expansion. This secondary school has been a cornerstone of Amstelveen and the surrounding area for many years, and it will continue to be so, especially after this rejuvenating renovation and expansion project. The endeavor was executed with a meticulous regard for the historical charm of the building while aligning it with the latest advancements in education. Moreover, the school building is now energy-neutral. What does this revitalized KKC look like?

Photography: Mike Bink

Function:
secondary school

Client:
Keizer Karel College & Municipality Amstelveen

Location:
Amstelveen

Year:
2022

Status:
in use

This renovation serves as an opportunity to enhance the sustainability and vitality of the school building. It's also an ideal moment to engage teachers and students in discussions about the vision for the 'new' KKC. They swiftly developed a clear vision: breaking away from traditional classroom education by merging subjects and creating open (learning) spaces. Their goal was to establish an engaging and inspiring learning environment. The outcomes of these workshops were translated into a Program of Requirements, which then shaped the design.

From courtyard to green heart
Within KKC, multiple spacious courtyards have been transformed into hubs for social interaction. These spaces are distinctive and easily identifiable. For example, the former courtyard has been reborn as a tranquil and spacious oasis. Abundant daylight filters through the glass roof, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This space significantly enhances learning performance and overall well-being, contributing to a healthier learning environment.

"Creating these versatile learning spaces is a genuine win-win situation. By transforming the courtyard into an expansive learning area, we achieved several goals: adding extra square footage, creating more logical and efficient walkways, and making the building more compact, energy-efficient, and easier to maintain."
Thomas Bögl, LIAG architects + engineers

Custom design and solutions
Smart design solutions have paved the way for customization. The learning spaces are versatile and adaptable. At times, they function as extensions of traditional classrooms, while at other times, students use these areas during free periods to work independently or collaboratively, often with supervision or guidance from teaching assistants.

"This redesigned layout necessitates a different approach to learning and teaching, departing from what students and teachers were accustomed to. Fortunately, this transition has been smooth. We've noticed that students show more respect for the 'new' KKC, including its interior and furnishings. Additionally, teachers feel more connected, as they now have better visibility of their cluster and the school building's activities."
Charles Kauffman, Keizer Karel College

Secondary school with auditorium
The new KKC boasts several distinctive features, including the auditorium. It has been designed as a striking and prominent centerpiece, strategically positioned within one of the learning spaces. This auditorium introduces students to teaching methods commonly found in higher education. Beyond lectures, this space is versatile, suitable for parent meetings, lectures, or musical performances.

"The auditorium is a multifunctional piece of furniture. By opening a wall, you can instantly create a tiered seating area with a stage. By closing the wall, it transforms back into an educational space. Above the auditorium lies a central ICT education space, accessible via a staircase. This staircase has been designed to create a clear transition between the hallway and the educational space, ensuring a more structured and peaceful environment for work and learning. This overall experience has a positive impact on behavior."
Thomas Bögl, LIAG architects + engineers

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