Albert-Schweitzer-School, Berlin

The Albert-Schweitzer Plaza sits in the middle of Berlin’s Neukölln district close to the intensively used Hermann Square. The schoolyard and plaza requires a thorough rejuvenation. The damaged open space elements were removed and replaced with attractive ones. Valuable existing plantings and materials were reused in the schoolyard project. The plaza is public and often visited by the high school students. The teachers and students were integrated into the planning process, intern funding was given for the renewal project. All of the raised planting beds are newly framed and supplemented with sitting pockets. A canopy offers students protection from rain and the hot sun. The colourful sitting elements are particularly striking. A long beam placed directly next to the peace monument is very popular among teens. Here is an appropriate spot for chatting, kidding around and playing.  The new design for the schoolyard also offers spaces for a wide range of physical exercises including a soccer field, basketball court and table tennis. Teachers can use the outdoor classroom for their lessons where the colourful mobile stools can be placed as needed. Additionally, whoever wants to simply chill, can lay on the hammocks in the small courtyard.