HF North Jutland – Learning in differentiated settings

The architectural concept features interaction between a unifying landscape concept and a clear building volume, whose exterior detail and interior spaces possess strong architectural qualities. The building delivers on the desire for a combination of open and closed spaces. The closed spaces are consolidated in a series of defined building volumes placed around a central common space. The open spaces extend between these well-defined structures, dynamically ‘cutting through’ the building stock. This results in open ‘pockets’ along the façade, which expose the inner life of the building and create access to the surrounding countryside.

The building’s functions are connected to the green landscape, both directly at ground level and from large balconies and seating steps on the first floor. The surroundings are shaped like a soft, hilly, green activity landscape in contrast to the rigid expression of the building, forming the setting for the likes of an amphitheatre and other facilities, which can be occupied by students for learning purposes and physical expression. The architecture has the capacity to separate areas, but not with traditional walls, thereby creating a high degree of flexibility and synergy for a wide variety of situations. Between the various learning environments there are varying degrees of transparency, providing a clear sense of the life in the building. Students can see other students at work and draw inspiration from them, and the feeling of transparency is consistent. Accordingly, it is also important for the functions and facilities to support a good working environment. The building is also a day-to-day workplace for many employees, which is why the features and facilities naturally support a positive working environment. Visibility and transparency in terms of management, administration, teacher’s offices and the students are essential for creating a vibrant, inspirational shared environment.