Science in a circular setting

Circular buildings always attract attention and there are several well-known examples in Denmark, such as Naturvidenskabernes hus in Bjerringbro and the Science Centre at Sorø Akademi.

The VID Gymnasier in Grenaa also boasts a round extension to house its science rooms. This white two storey building, with its horizontal line of windows, may look quite modest when viewed from outside but is very dramatic inside where its shape can be fully appreciated.

Here, its roundness determines the school's visual identity with laboratories, workshops and classrooms ranged around the perimeter while the central section provides a communal space with leisure areas. From the centre, there is an amazing view up through the open floors because the stairways have been offset to maximise the visual effect of the tower's volume. At the top, there is access to a roof terrace which can also be used for outdoor teaching.

The ceilings play a key role in the design experience, having been lined with 1,150 sqm of white painted Troldtekt panels. All are cut in wedge shapes, narrow at the centre and wider where they abut the outer walls. Together with the integrated light fixtures, this creates a beautiful harmony in both the atrium and the classrooms.

This is a low energy class 2020 building designed with a major focus on sustainability, including solar cells and a vertical ground heat system.