St. Nicolaaslyceum, Amsterdam

The transparent, glass-enclosed premises are pleasant rooms that allow one to work with concentration. The outdoor spaces fit into the overall picture like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. The sports field is seamlessly included in the ‘armpit’ of the building. From the stands in the atrium, children can see their fellow students play sports, in the background accompanied by the hustle and bustle of the A10 and the Zuidas. Schools should also be vandal-proof. At this school, this issue has been solved cleverly with the careful application of concrete and polycarbonate. The striking ceiling elements ensure excellent acoustics and support the spatiality. This is a school where after 20 years’ time you’d like to return for a reunion.

Category winner Best Building of the year