Our design for Debrecen International School is centered around a circular form. This simple yet meaningful shape traditionally represents protection, unity, and community. It also harmoniously integrates with the nearby protected Nagyerdő natural forest area.
The site is located in the growing and popular residential neighborhood of Pallag, near Nagyerdő—a city park in Debrecen, the second-largest city in Hungary. This tranquil natural environment provides an ideal setting for the school. Designing a modern building that reflects the quality of an international school through a unique, iconic appearance, while blending seamlessly with the green surroundings, posed a significant challenge. The design’s key was to create a form that transcends boundaries and integrates naturally into the environment.
▲ General layout plan
The circle, as a simple shape, symbolizes an organically formed, undivided human group. It represents people gathering—whether to engage in dialogue or to focus attention on someone within the group. A space enclosed by circles brings individuals and groups together, embodying the concepts of space aggregation and community. It also marks the boundaries of existence, symbolizing the edges of the world we create.
We view forests as emblems of nature and science—the ultimate symbol of the world itself. Thus, the forest became an integral part of the design, embedded within the circular form. Incorporating forests into the project required preserving their internal structure and appearance. The path of organized change draws from the essence of the forest, allowing for harmonious coexistence. By integrating with the natural surroundings, the circular concept is fully realized as the pathway leads into the forest.
Through a ‘gate’ opening towards the forest, children gain direct access to nature. The paths they create continually rebuild their connection with the natural world.
The school accommodates approximately 500 students, divided into groups and clubs of varying sizes across three distinct age groups, each with unique needs. Learning spaces are arranged along circular rings, yet remain independent from one another. For the youngest children, a fully self-contained environment exists within the building. Two separate entrances serve the school: one for kindergarten and elementary students, and the main entrance for high school students. Kindergarten and primary school areas are distinctly separated for exclusive use. Public spaces, administrative offices, the auditorium, and the cafeteria are located on the first floor, while the quieter second floor is dedicated to learning spaces.
The exhibition-style classroom layout creates a vertically dynamic and lively environment. This architectural concept extends outdoors, guiding movement towards the forest. Garden spaces are arranged along the circular path, serving as a transition zone between the building and its natural surroundings.
▲ First floor plan
The architectural volume provides shelter for outdoor social areas and sports facilities. The building’s bridge-like structure connects the classroom floors to the basketball court, while offering clear views of the football field from above. The sports hall, located in the semi-underground level, is covered by a concrete slab. On the first floor, an internal garden lined with greenery welcomes visitors.
▲ Second floor plan
In front of the school, a parking area is provided for parents during drop-off and pick-up times. Students enter through a forest-like park path, transitioning into a protected school environment that helps them calmly prepare for their day. This green space fully surrounds the school, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
Project Drawings
▲ Sectional view
▲ Climate analysis chart
Project Information
Project type: School
Location: Debrecen, Hungary
Architectural Design: BORD Architectural Studio
Site Area: 7,400 m²
Project Year: 2019
Photography: Gyorgy Palko
Manufacturer: Graphisoft SE
Lead Architect: Peter Bordas
Design Team: Anna Illes, Robert Gulyas, Andras Keki, Csilla Kracker, Emese Kulcsar, Tamas Mezey, Balazs Moser, Istvan Ulmann
Client: Municipality of Debrecen
Overall Design: BORD Architectural Studio
Coordinating Architects: Gyorgyi Puspoki, Kata Zih
Landscape Architect: BORD Architectural Studio – Andrea Waldmann
Mechanical Engineer: BORD Architectural Studio – Zoltan Hollokovi
Structural Engineer: Hydrastat Mernoki Iroda – Zsigmond Dezso
Visual Design: Homologue – Zoltan Olbey
Physical Model: Limes Model – Geza Csizmazia
Capacity: 500 students
Project Duration: 2017–2018
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