Secondary School Mahlsdorf, Berlin

The open spaces of the new secondary school in Berlin-Mahlsdorf are spatially framed by a loose framework of trees and the two high-rise buildings on the east and south sides. The schoolyard as well as the central play and sports areas stand out as open meadow clearings. The tree frame and the areas in the immediate vicinity of the school building accommodate small-scale uses (school garden, break areas) and separate the necessary enclosure of the site from the open courtyard areas. Starting from the forecourt and schoolyard, a pathway of varying width provides access to all parts of the open spaces. The various open-space utilisation areas are given clearly identifiable and independent spatial and material characteristics, analogous to the two high-rise buildings.