Cepezed and Cepezedinterieur have designed the new branch of the Graafschap College in Doetinchem. The recently opened school building is structured around a large central atrium, where the floor rises stepwise. With its many different seats, the atrium functions as a meeting place and canteen for the 650 students. Large strip windows in the roof of the atrium allow daylight to penetrate deep into the school. On every floor, the atrium is surrounded by a gallery with a balustrade of stainless steel mesh. The galleries provide access to the classrooms, which are situated on the outside walls.
The façades are horizontally articulated, with alternating strips of glass and black aluminium panels. With the exception of the North side, a second skin of Corten steel has been placed in front of the façades, with a design that refers to the oak trees growing around the school. The Corten steel, which also functions as sun shading, is perforated.
Photography: Lucas van der Wee