De Verwondering

The aim of primary school De Verwondering in Almere is to bring children more in touch with nature by interweaving it with the built environment. This happens not only through the curriculum, but also through the physical environment: the indoor and outdoor areas of the school building. Nature is leading in the spatial design of the school, inspired by the concept of natural habitats in which animal species coexist and thrive. In short, a biophilic school built from natural materials. The school building has 14 classrooms, divided into three clusters oriented to create a large natural in-between space for central, communal functions. This space, with abundant daylight, green walls and numerous flexible learning spaces, accommodates both large and small groups. De Verwondering is also built 'of nature'. It is a hybrid wooden building: the construction is partly CLT (Cross-Laminated Timber), partly timber-frame. The materials used for insulation, finishing, flooring and furniture are all bio-based. The use of natural materials and textures, combined with the green walls, stimulates not only visual impressions, but also the sense of touch and smell. This creates a multi-sensory experience.