At the Integrated Child Center (IKC) De Brug in Nieuwerbrug aan den Rijn, preschool, primary education, and after-school care are integrated. The design by De Zwarte Hond aligns with the high sustainability ambitions of the school board and the municipality. The goal was to make the building energy-neutral and to use as many bio-based materials as possible. The decision to use a fully wooden load-bearing structure was a key principle. With its green roof, the school supports the ambitious sustainability objectives and serves as a tangible example within the neighborhood. The building is centrally positioned on the site, surrounded by greenery. The north façade (village side) references the village character with its gabled roof and has a playful, welcoming curve. The south façade (polder side) appears more robust, giving the building a distinctive silhouette visible from afar.

The new building encourages collaboration among the three IKC partners. All classrooms border a central meeting space—the heart of the building. Large windows on both sides of the classrooms provide a sense of calm and openness. The heart is multifunctionally equipped with workspaces, a library, a stage, and a studio. The gym and the fully glazed sliding wall of the after-school care area make the building ideal for large events such as the arrival of Sinterklaas or a shared Christmas dinner.

A sustainable building with a playful design
The school board and the municipality had clearly defined sustainability ambitions for the new school building. The building had to be ‘zero on the meter’, i.e. completely self-sufficient in terms of energy consumption, and built as much as possible from bio-based materials. Here a key choice was to use a timber supporting structure.

The façade, finished with brickwork using the English bond, is robust, low-maintenance, and sustainable. As a result, the wooden structure is hidden from the outside, making the surprise even greater upon entering. Inside, the wooden trusses, joists, and columns have been deliberately left visible, creating a warm and natural atmosphere.

The roof is fully greened and fitted with solar panels, primarily placed on the higher volume of the gymnasium. With its green roof, the school visibly aligns with the high sustainability goals and serves as a local example.

Because the building stands centrally on the plot, it is surrounded by greenery on all sides. To the north is a green entrance plaza; to the east and west are play areas for younger and older children. The north façade (village side), with its gabled roof, reflects the village character and has a playful appearance thanks to a gentle curve. The south façade (polder side) is more robust, giving the building a distinctive silhouette even from a distance.