Schuthoek
On the outskirts of Zuidlaren, on a wooded plot overlooking one of the village’s characteristic village greens, we are building a new integrated children’s centre: IKC de Schuthoek.
The original school building expanded gradually between the 1960s and 1990s. Each extension reached further out into the green landscape like a ‘finger’. Although the building was outdated and no longer met current standards, its spacious rooms and historically evolved structure represented a tremendous asset.
By retaining the existing load-bearing structure and main framework, and fitting them with a new envelope (facades and roof) as well as modern services, we combine the comfort of a new build with the spatial qualities of the original building.
The distinctive pyramid-shaped skylight has been replaced by contemporary light wells that allow northern light to flood into the communal learning spaces. By installing a new layer of roof beams over the existing roof structure, spacious, elevated classrooms with a clear height of up to 3.80 metres have been created. The building is designed on the basis of a precise modular system, which is reflected in the façade through a rich brick cladding, combined with refined wooden accents above the window frames and at the entrances.
In addition to the spatial benefits, this major refurbishment makes a significant contribution to the sustainability goals we are working towards together. By reusing the main structure, we are conserving new raw materials, keeping waste to a minimum and drastically reducing CO₂ emissions during construction.
The result is a combination of the best of both worlds: the familiar and much-loved qualities of the old school within a future-proof, refreshing working environment. A truly revitalised ‘home’ for the children of IKC de Schuthoek.
Location Zuidlaren, The Netherlands
Client Stichting Baasis
Contractor Van Wijnen
Year 2026