A Modern Renaissance

Rediscovering Gymnasium Beekvliet

The transformation of Gymnasium Beekvliet in Sint-Michielsgestel, Netherlands, has reached completion, marking a significant chapter in the school’s rich history. Executed by MVRDV, this renovation and extension project breathe new life into the centuries-old Catholic Gymnasium, creating a contemporary and sustainable space for learning and cultural activities.

Artistic Fusion: A Sky-Blue Auditorium

Central to the renewed school is a sky-blue auditorium, serving as the beating heart of the facility. The architects aimed to optimize the circulation flow for students and educators, creating a seamless path past classrooms and communal spaces. Visual artist Ian Kirkpatrick enriched the extension’s facade with a panoramic tableau, interweaving the narratives of former pupils, passers-by, and board members with glimpses into the future.

A Tapestry of Heritage and Modernity

Gymnasium Beekvliet’s origins trace back to its role as a seminary for priests and later as an internment camp during World War II. In the 1970s, it underwent a transformative journey to become a modern grammar school. MVRDV, in collaboration with Van Boven Architecten, won the 2016 competition to revitalize this historical institution.

Facelifting with Sustainability in Mind

The core objective was not only to refresh the aesthetics of the secondary school but also to infuse it with contemporary sustainability, ensuring a prolonged lifespan. The renovation aimed to carve out additional space for regular academic pursuits and expand facilities for arts and culture.

Innovative Design: Auditorium Integration

The design primarily focuses on renovating the existing structure, fostering an engaging learning environment and communal spaces. An essential addition was the new auditorium at the front, seamlessly integrated with the lowered roof structure. This architectural move symbolically reflects the school’s motto, “Beekvliet Stroomt” (“Beekvliet flows”). The expanded auditorium now includes a tribune, kitchen, and flexible stage.

An Artistic Narrative on Facade

Renowned Canadian visual artist Ian Kirkpatrick played a pivotal role in designing the facade artwork. The panoramic tableau on the facade intricately captures the memories and experiences of present and former students, faculty, and board members. It serves as a visual tapestry, illustrating the school’s evolution over its 200-plus years and connecting it to the broader community. The position of each illustration on the facade was meticulously determined using computer scripting, linking them back to their geographical origins.

Reflecting the Community

Winy Maas, founding partner of MVRDV, expresses the honor of renovating the old school and emphasizes the collaborative effort with Ian Kirkpatrick. The murals not only provide a contemporary aesthetic but also serve as a collective memory of the entire Sint-Michielsgestel community.

The Gymnasium Beekvliet, with its renewed spirit, stands as a testament to the harmonious integration of historical significance and modern functionality, embracing the past while propelling itself into an exciting future.