VAALA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Tarred wooden wedges
Type: Public - educational
Location: Vaala, Finland
Year: Completion 2012
Size: 5480 br-m2
Client: Vaala Municipality
Collaboration with Martti Karsikas
The four dark wooden blocks confine the main lobby and a canteen between them - the heart of the school complex. Each block contains its own functional entity and the central lobby space acts as an intermediate space through which one can access other parts of the school. These wedges have different orientations that derive from the natural characteristics of the site. Spaces between these wedges form yards for different and specific uses. Tar-treated wooden facade is a reminder of local history of dry distilling tar from pine wood by burning, while colourful steel profiles give it a fresh, contemporary look. Colourful floors in hallways are inspired by the traditional rag rugs of the area. The pursued atmosphere is sympathetic but brisk.
