International School of Stuttgart: Extension Building with Vision

Learning clusters with terraces, an open foyer, creative spaces, and a clear commitment to sustainability: The International School of Stuttgart continues to grow – with an extension building that combines pedagogical vision and precise architecture.

13. May 2025

Architecture for a Global School Community

Linguistic diversity, cultural exchange, flexible life plans – international schools stand for more than just instruction in multiple languages. They are places where education is conceived across territorial boundaries. In Stuttgart-Degerloch, this aspiration has now also been spatially developed: The fourth construction phase of the International School of Stuttgart complements the existing campus with an open, networked learning and living space – designed by a+r Architekten.

Building with Purpose

The school is growing within its existing structure: construction phases realized in 2001 and 2012 are now connected by a four-story new building. The new structure does not close off the campus but rather opens it up. Two alignments, an offset, with an urban forecourt in between. On the west side: terraced break and activity areas, vertically structured by an external staircase that also serves as a second escape route.

The spatial concept was developed in a multi-stage process. Workshops with teachers, students, and school representatives resulted in a pedagogically sound spatial program – accompanied by architect and school building consultant Kirstin Bartels from Hamburg. The spatial implementation is based on the principles of “Phase Zero”: those who will later learn in the spaces are involved in the planning at an early stage.

International School of Stuttgart — © Max Leitner

Learning in Clusters

The heart of the new building is the central foyer. It connects both the floors and the functions. From here, sightlines lead to event areas such as the Black Box Theater or creative workshops, to music and rehearsal rooms, to the Makerspace or the Design Cluster. The areas are open, flexible, and designed so that they can also be used by the neighborhood.

On the upper floors is the so-called school street – an accessible main thoroughfare to which six open learning clusters are connected. Each of these clusters consists of two to three classrooms, differentiation areas, and communal zones. Niches, retreat areas, and open sightlines promote individual work as well as cooperation. The adjacent terraces extend the learning spaces outdoors and enhance the connection to the surroundings.

Architecture between Space and Rhythm

Clearly structured facades, generous glazing, and reduced materials define the design expression. The solid wall surfaces with external thermal insulation composite systems contrast with open fronts made of precast concrete elements that form balconies, bay windows, and pergolas. These transition zones rhythmize the building and create a flowing transition between inside and outside.

LED light lines emphasize the axes inside, while wood surfaces and textile floor coverings provide acoustic and visual tranquility. The architectural language remains restrained yet conveys presence – also as a statement for a school that aims to make internationality and participation visible.

Technically Forward-Looking

Energy efficiency is part of the building’s identity. A geothermal system provides heating, and controlled ventilation optimizes the indoor climate. Solar cells support the energy supply, and a vertical garden is planned. The new building meets the KfW-55 standard – and thus remains significantly below the legally required consumption values.