A Timber Construction for the Marzahn-Hellersdorf Secondary School
A New Example of Modern and Sustainable School Building
Location
Marzahn-Hellersdorf
Architecture
Hausmann Architekten, Aachen (development) / Thoma Architekten, Berlin (LP 5)
Contracting Authority
HOWOGE Wohnungsbaugesellschaft mbH, Berlin (DE)
Client
Gustav Epple Bauunternehmung, Stuttgart (DE)
Structural Engineer
kba Architekten und Ingenieure, Berlin
Size of Timber Construction
5,700 m² of wall elements (windows, sun protection) / 1,500 m² of timber-glass façade
Year of Construction
2025
In the heart of the rapidly expanding Berlin district of Marzahn-Hellersdorf, a new secondary school has emerged that not only creates 830 new student places but also redefines architectural and construction language. The complex on Erich-Kästner-Straße, built as part of the “Berliner Schulbauoffensive” initiative, is a clear example of sustainable urban development through timber construction.
For this project, we at Rubner constructed the entire prefabricated timber façade, from design to production, transport, and assembly. Our services include:
- Approximately 1,500 m² of timber and glass façade, featuring laminated red spruce and Raico system
- Approximately 6,020 m² of prefabricated elements for façade and roof
- Maximum dimensions of elements: 4.15 × 9.83 m with a weight of 2,800 kg
The core of the project is based on the innovative “Compartment Concept”, which transforms the school into an open, dynamic, and inclusive space. Eight compartments with flexible study environments are arranged over two levels, featuring bright internal courtyards, a modern library, a multifunctional hall, music and art laboratories, and a spacious dining area.
Technology and Maximum Precision in Execution
The project demanded the utmost precision: every detail, from the Isokorb connections to complex geometries and junction points between the façade with posts and beams and the timber frame structure, was planned and executed with extreme accuracy. Thanks to our well-thought-out logistics and timely coordination with other trades, we were able to install each element on-site just-in-time and with millimetric precision, even in covered areas, using a spider crane and rope-lifting systems.
The façade stands out for its vertical slatted cladding with male-female joints and a pre-greyed finish (Keim Lignosil Verano), which provides a uniform, natural, and aesthetically pleasing appearance while ensuring robustness and durability.
Sustainability that Makes an Impact
The new school complex meets BNB criteria (sustainable building assessment system) and actively contributes to resource conservation, thanks to extensive green roofs and photovoltaic systems. The installation of the timber façade was carried out with a high degree of prefabrication, significantly reducing both construction time and emissions on-site.
An Added Value for the Community
In addition to educational activities, extracurricular uses are also planned: the gymnasium will be available for sports associations and competitive sports, while the district music school will have dedicated spaces. In this way, the educational facility becomes a meeting point in the neighbourhood, a space dedicated to education, movement, and community engagement.
The Marzahn-Hellersdorf secondary school is a concrete example of what can emerge from the union of sustainable architecture and innovative engineering. A project that not only impresses on paper but also impacts the daily lives of the local community.
