REFURBISHMENT AND NEW BUILDING Secondary school Rotenburg (Wümme)
New start in existing buildings
Nestled in the green surroundings of the town of Rotenburg in Lower Saxony, close to the Wümme and Wiedau rivers, the secondary school is undergoing a pioneering transformation. As part of the refurbishment, the existing parts of the building are being brought up to today's structural and energy standards, while at the same time open, light-filled learning environments are being created that pave the way for new educational concepts.
- Project
- Refurbishment, remodeling & partial new building of the Ratsgymnasiums Rotenburg
- Client
- District of Rotenburg (Wümme)
- Service
- 2-9 HOAI
- Area
- 3.250 m² GFA
- Location
- Gerberstraße in Rotenburg (Wümme)
- Specifics
- 1st place PPP-Procedure | Building during ongoing operation
From demolition to the future
The school grounds of the Ratsgymnasium are characterized by various building sections of different ages and standards. The planning tasks are extensive and extend across several parts of the building: from the demolition and new construction of the 100 wing to the refurbishment and modernization of the 300 wing and the creation of new escape routes in the 200 wing - each measure requires an individual approach. The focus is on the integration of modern standards and the respectful treatment of the existing structure. The new building with a connecting structure to the assembly hall gives the school a new face and a modern identity with its positioning at the main entrance and along Gerberstrasse.
Encounter at the heart
The interior concept was completely rethought to create cluster learning environments that promote an open and collaborative learning environment. At the heart of the school is the transformed »school street« through all three parts of the building, which combines meeting zones with functional benefits. The minimalist interior design concept creates a bright and friendly learning atmosphere despite the large room depths. Accent colors in shades of red differentiate the interior into different zones and indicate places to linger.
Design with responsibility
Special attention was paid to accessibility, safety and sustainable aspects during the planning phase. Intensive coordination processes accompany the energy-efficient renovation of the façades and roofs - including the modernization of 19 skylight strips and 21 skylight domes. The new building boasts a vibrant clinker brick façade that blends harmoniously into the existing ensemble and is complemented by recyclable fiber cement panels. Green roofs with a PV system help to make the building climatically and energetically sustainable.

The refurbishment measures are being organized in six construction phases during ongoing operations in order to disrupt everyday school life as little as possible. Two interim facilities will provide additional space for ongoing lessons. Nevertheless, much of the noise-intensive renovation work can only be carried out during the vacation period.
Insights on site
Here we show the progress of the project in the various construction phases and important milestones on site.