Menu
Urban Integration
The site of the Brühl primary school and kindergarten in Dornach, Canton of Solothurn, is located within a small, leafy residential neighbourhood, along the axis connecting the river landscape of the Birs with the historic centre of the town.
The dense tree canopy to the west of the primary school gives the site an intimate character while simultaneously acting as an important buffer towards the large-scale infrastructures of the industrial area and the railway tracks.
The carefully considered placement of the new buildings ensures a clear spatial reading of the site — both in terms of urban structure and landscape spaces, as well as with regard to the new functions and activities. Two clearly defined building volumes, strongly oriented towards the interior, structure the overall ensemble. In the outdoor spaces, they are connected through a strong and coherent design language, forming along the main axis a true “hinge” that brings together the different parts of the site.
The urban integration of the new buildings clarifies the existing landscape spaces while simultaneously creating new, high-quality places.
Primary School and Day Structure
The new buildings for the primary school and the day structure, positioned in a balanced manner to the west, reinforce the central square together with the existing buildings and generate a strong sense of identity.
The existing sealed surface is relieved by a generous central gravel area. Deciduous trees, turning red in autumn, and ornamental hedges lend the place a distinctive character and create a pleasant environment for play and outdoor teaching.
Two spiral staircases provide functional connections to the lower level. Play, gardening, sports and relaxation areas are characterised by a strong natural atmosphere. Gently curved paths link the various activities and buildings, opening the site towards its surroundings and integrating it into the existing circulation network.
Kindergarten
The urban placement of the new kindergarten building to the east creates an intimate, green centre. The new play areas integrate harmoniously with the existing playground, while allowing for flexible subdivision into group-specific zones according to need.
Traffic-Calmed Area
Acting as a hinge between the two complexes, this space takes on a square-like atmosphere, defined by a clear design gesture. As a meeting area, it is characterised by a change in paving with artistic details, two low seating walls that create a “slow” and relaxed ambiance, and a fountain serving as a distinctive element.
Accessibility
Existing access routes are enhanced and further developed. The new square/street functions as the main address of the site. A primary axis connects the central square of the primary school to the west, from which all four buildings are accessed.
In deliberate contrast, the kindergarten to the east is reached directly.
The bicycle parking area to the north is efficiently reorganised and equipped with a pergola that provides both urban definition and shading. Additional bicycle and scooter parking is distributed along the main axis between the kindergarten and the primary school. Car parking is discreetly integrated within the meeting zone.
Nature and Ecology
The existing tree stock within the project area is respectfully integrated into the new design wherever possible and reinforced through targeted planting. Important habitats for flora and fauna are preserved and enhanced, while vegetation contributes to the regulation of the local microclimate.
The urban positioning of the new buildings and the design of the natural outdoor spaces place particular emphasis on heat-reduction measures: seating areas and south-facing façades are shaded, light-coloured and natural materials are favoured, and permeable surfaces enable sustainable stormwater management.
