Perched atop Mount Goldwald, the Dybk æ r School—fondly known as the ‘school on the hill’—has become a vital community hub in the Danish town of Goldwald. This award-winning project, honored with the 2024 School Award, fosters a spirit of unity by seamlessly blending education with local life.
The school spans three staggered floors at the intersection of town and nature, weaving together school activities with community leisure. At its heart lies a three-story central space featuring an internal hill that encourages interaction across different age groups and classes. Surrounding the building, scenic play areas, learning zones, and activity spaces cater to various age groups.
Drawing inspiration from its hillside setting, the architectural design mirrors the natural terrain. The building rises to a peak before gently flattening out, creating a welcoming scale even for the youngest students. This ‘primary school within a large university’ concept promotes both intimate and collective experiences, blending harmoniously with the surrounding environment. The school offers multifunctional spaces that support play, learning, relaxation, and community gatherings.
Dybk æ r School is thoughtfully designed for children and adolescents, with every space supporting diverse learning styles, community engagement, and creativity. Practical skills and project-based learning form the core of the school’s educational philosophy. Flexible classrooms, collaborative zones, and areas dedicated to creativity and physical activity reflect students’ input, ensuring the environment meets their evolving needs.
The building features durable brick and steel exterior walls, complemented by expansive glass panels that flood interiors with natural light. Iconic red accents unify the exterior design, while solar panels and a green roof emphasize the school’s commitment to sustainability. Dybk æ r School exemplifies how modern education can be integrated into local communities—not just as a place for learning, but as a vibrant center that inspires creativity, fosters connections, and nurtures growth.
Project Information
Architect: Sweco Architects
Area: 10,200 m²
Project Year: 2024
Photographer: Niels Nygaard
Creative Team: Peter Kristiansen
Design Team: Sweco Architects
Landscape Architect: Vega Landskab
Engineering & Consultant: Autens
Interior Design: Kolon
Location: Silkeborg, Denmark
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