IKC de Zuidstroom

The Integraal Kind Centrum de Zuidstroom (De Zuidstroom primary school) which opened in 2015, was designed and built entirely according to cradle to cradle (C2C) principles. The ambition of the client, Fortior, was not only to realise a circular and healthy school building; but also to approach the construction as a learning tool in the field of circular economy. The pupils are consequently regarded as ambassadors of the future and have circular philosophy firmly embedded in their DNA.

Research has revealed that the average school building in the Netherlands is 38 years old, does not comply with the basic principles of educational institutions, and a staggering 80% (!) do not meet air quality target standards.
The De Zuidstroom distinguishes itself by providing a pleasant, healthy and safe learning and working environment for children, teachers and local residents alike.

The ambitions

An important starting point for the design of the De Zuidstroom primary school was the creation of healthy indoor air (Frisse Scholen – literally ‘fresh schools’), the generation of renewable energy and the utilisation of safe and healthy materials.

The school building was additionally designed in such a way that its classrooms can be used in a flexible manner and outside of school hours. The Cradle to Cradle-inspired school building also performs an important pivotal function in the local area.

Business Case explanation

The school building was designed and built according to the Total Cost of Ownership approach, and its C2C ambitions were realised within the allocated budget. Fortior’s operating costs, such as energy use, are also considerably lower than in traditional school buildings.

Effects on health and productivity were not included in the financial business case. However, both teachers and children alike are positive about the indoor climate.

The result

The building generates its own energy. The amount of energy that is currently being generated is visible in the central hall and this information is subsequently used in maths lessons etc.

In total, 21 Cradle to Cradle certified materials were utilised in the building’s construction. The suppliers were engaged as early in the process as possible, in order to arrive at innovative solutions. As a result, the selected materials have a positive impact on the school’s operation, such as floor coverings that improve indoor air quality, white roofing that reduces energy consumption and a ceiling system that improves acoustics.

 The school building complies with the ‘Frisse Scholen’ (Fresh Schools) requirements. Green interior facades and textile air ducts additionally contribute to a healthy indoor climate. 

New C2C (inspired) solutions are continuously being added during day-to-day operations, from a vegetable garden to green roofing and facades. IKC de Zuidstroom also served as inspiration for the new, C2C-inspired Zuid sports hall.

C2C ExpoLAB’s role

C2C ExpoLAB assisted the client, Fortior, from the design to the construction team procurement and project delivery. Together with the client, teachers and design team, we set to work on formulating the scope and aspirations in terms of C2C.

The C2C ambitions were subsequently translated into the design, business cases and construction. C2C ExpoLAB continuously monitored these ambitions, provided the design team with on-going advice and additionally conducted C2C inspiration sessions for the teachers.

The difference

“Children are calmer and visibly thrive in the new climate. There is significantly more light and the environment is noticeably different from the previous school.” – Marij Gaal, nursery school teacher.

“The school smells much less musty and is much fresher.” – Janne, pupil.

“The old building was made from toxic substances, including asbestos. They didn’t do that this time, because it’s better for our health.” Murat, pupil.

Pupils now actively think about how they, too, can improve their school. A child recently approached the headmaster requesting that more attention be paid to waste separation for example. Both the school and the modified curriculum help raise awareness.