The Carlo-Mierendorff School was designed as a four-stream, inclusive full-day school in Griesheim near Frankfurt. Parts of the heritage-listed 1965 ensemble were renovated and integrated into the new building. The building forms a vibrant educational campus that bridges past and future. Its S-shaped structure connects existing facilities and integrates harmoniously into the pine-covered landscape. It features light-filled learning clusters, a central foyer with flexible communal spaces, and sustainable construction meeting Passive House standards. A forward-looking place for education and encounter.

The new building was centrally positioned to ensure equal access from east and west. Embedded within the existing trees, it connects surrounding structures into a harmonious ensemble of architecture and nature. Its bright pine wood façade, organic forms, and large windows create a welcoming, nature-inspired atmosphere. The structure consists of a prefabricated timber façade with integrated windows and a reinforced concrete skeleton. Continuous escape balconies articulate the façade and provide short, direct routes. The building presents itself as open, bright, and inviting.

What makes the Carlo-Mierendorff School truly unique is its holistic spatial concept: A bright, flowing foyer forms the vibrant heart of the building—welcoming, open, and community-oriented. Distinct learning clusters create familiar, inclusive spaces that support both collaboration and individual growth. A color and guidance system based on the four elements fosters identity and orientation. Combined with natural materials and clear design, the school becomes a distinctive, future-ready environment for learning, creativity, and belonging.

The new school was designed to minimize energy demand and meets Passive House standards through efficient construction, smart technology, and renewable energy. LED lighting with daylight and presence sensors reduces electricity use. A green roof supports climate regulation and biodiversity while blending into the landscape. A photovoltaic system generates renewable energy, and two brine-to-water heat pumps provide base load heating. The result is a sustainable learning environment with exemplary character.