Lemmer Zuyderzee Lyceum | Lemmer, The Netherlands

The first building project completion by the Rotterdam Studio for several years, the clear design concept is beautifully carried through to the completed building. The judges were impressed by the organisational clarity of the original idea with classrooms wrapping around two heart spaces; one for socialising, school gatherings and community meetings, and the other for collaborative learning. This has resulted in a beautifully simple building form, with good levels of natural daylighting throughout. The building is highly sustainable, and the saw-tooth roof form creates a distinct and harmonising identity within the semi-rural Dutch landscape. 

Lemmer Zuyderzee Lyceum | Lemmer, The Netherlands

The judges praised the project’s holistic and forward-thinking approach to sustainability, seamlessly integrating passive and active strategies to reduce environmental impact. The building’s orientation and design maximize natural daylight while minimizing overheating, thanks to north-facing rooflights, solar shading fins, and deep reveals. Natural cross-ventilation and high-performance insulation further cuts energy demand. A ground-integrated ventilation system uses the earth’s natural temperature to precondition air, reducing reliance on mechanical heating and cooling. Renewable energy is then harnessed through extensive solar panels, supplying 40% of the school’s energy needs. Embodied carbon was minimized through the use of bio-based, prefabricated materials such as timber, natural felt, and Japanese burned wood, demonstrating a clear commitment to low-impact construction. This project stands as a compelling example of how architecture can harmonise environmental responsibility with educational purpose.