Kurt Tucholsky Secondary School

The Kurt Tucholsky Secondary School in Berlin-Pankow placed great importance on designing its schoolyard as a space for learning and relaxation. The goal was to create a design that meets the needs of the students and offers a variety of opportunities for staying, moving, and socializing.

A delegation of students from grades 7 to 12 actively participated in a planning workshop. Their ideas and wishes formed the basis of the design concept, which was guided by ecological principles. Existing functional structures were integrated, natural areas were added, and underused spaces were transformed into areas for movement and gathering. At the same time, care was taken to minimize sealed surfaces to improve the microclimate and allow rainwater to soak into the ground locally.

To enhance the quality of stay, a variety of seating options were provided: wooden podiums, a sturdy wooden bench fence, and two small amphitheaters made of clinker and granite serve as places for breaks, socializing, or outdoor lessons. Movement activities such as a slackline and a balancing installation complement the offerings.

The design creates attractive green spaces. Six new trees were planted to supplement the existing greenery and provide shade. In the center of the schoolyard, there is a square with a stone sculpture and a fountain from a previous participatory project, surrounded by seating and shrubs. The area is accessible barrier-free via a large ramp leading into the center of the site.

Thus, a diverse, sustainable schoolyard was created that combines learning, movement, and relaxation, strengthening the sense of community.

Commissioned by Bezirksamt Pankow von Berlin
Implementation Period 2024
Phases 1-9