The retrofitting project of the school, aims to  increment the space quality both indoor and outdoor. At the same time sustainability is achieved both from the energy and material aspects point of view. 

The structure has been realized in the 70’s mostly with concrete: the walls are 40 cm thick with an air cavity of 5cm. Because of the absence of any insulating material, thermal comfort is guaranteed by relying on the central heating system.  

The presence of big openings accounts for most of the thermal loss, furthermore they allow eccesive solar radiation inside. Ventilation is a disregarded element.

To solve the aforementioned problems, different strategies have been adopted.

Firstly, an insulation layer of expanded polystyrene panels has been directly applied on the outer rim of the envelope to minimize the amount of expected demolition work with a varying thickness depending on the area under study and the type of surface (wall, roof, floor…). 

Secondly, we envision to assemble a mesh double layer that would operate as the chief screen for the building from light and solar gain. 
The mesh will furthermore host deciduous greenery of vines and ivy that, depending on the season, will function as an adaptable shading system. 
Additionally, the mesh would not cover the whole building or fully opaque envelopes but has specific cuts where more light is needed.