Gymnasium Beekvliet's Extension l MVRDV + Van Boven Architecten

Renovation Transforms Gymnasium Beekvliet into a Modern Learning Hub

Gymnasium Beekvliet, an iconic educational institution in Sint-Michielsgestel, is set to transform remarkably, breathing new life into its centuries-old walls. Designed by MVRDV founding partner Winy Maas and co-architect Theobert van Boven, both proud alumni of the institution, the renovation project promises to reshape how pupils and teachers navigate the school while preserving its rich history.

Gymnasium Beekvliet’s Design Concept

One of the standout features of the revamped Gymnasium Beekvliet is the addition of a sky-blue auditorium that will serve as the school’s new heart. This move signifies a commitment to modernizing the school’s facilities while maintaining its legacy. The building’s extension, enriched with a panoramic work by visual artist Ian Kirkpatrick, intertwines the stories of former pupils, passers-by, and board members with visions of the future.

Gymnasium Beekvliet has a storied past, initially serving as a seminary for priests and later as an internment camp during World War II. In the 1970s, it transitioned into a contemporary grammar school. The 2016 design competition MVRDV and Van Boven Architecten won to set the stage for the current transformation, focusing on sustainability, longevity, and integrating art and culture.

The renovation primarily revitalizes the existing structure, creating an engaging learning environment that promotes interaction and creativity. The modern auditorium is a notable addition, prominently positioned at the building’s front; by extending and lowering the previous roof structure, the school’s internal circulation was seamlessly integrated, reflecting the institution’s motto, “Beekvliet Stroomt” (“Beekvliet flows”).

Winy Maas, MVRDV’s founding partner, expressed the honor of renovating his alma mater, emphasizing the importance of connecting the past and present. The murals by Ian Kirkpatrick play a pivotal role in this endeavor, encapsulating the memories of generations within the community, making the school a true reflection of Sint-Michielsgestel and its surroundings.

The captivating artwork on the façade, a collaborative effort with renowned Canadian visual artist Ian Kirkpatrick, tells the tale of past and present students, teachers, and board members, bridging the school’s rich history with the world beyond. These illustrations offer a contemporary aesthetic while firmly grounding the building in its historical context.

In an age where education evolves alongside society, Gymnasium Beekvliet’s transformation represents a harmonious blend of tradition and progress, providing students with a dynamic and inspiring space for years to come.

Project Info:

Architects: MVRDV + Van Boven Architecten
Area: 6052 m²
Year: 2023
Photographs: Daria Scagliola
Client: OMO
Founding partner in charge: Winy Maas
Director: Gideon Maasland
Design team: Gijs RikkenTobias TonchThijs van OostrumChun Hoi HuiMichele TavolaAlessio Palmieri
Visualisations: Antonio CocoAngelo La DelfaLuana La MartinaGianlorenzo Petrini
Copyright: MVRDV Winy Maas, Jacob van Rijs, Nathalie de Vries
Co-architect: Van Boven Architecten
Contractor: Peters Bouw en Onderhoud
Project coordination: ICS Adviseurs
Structural engineer: Van de Laar
Installation advisor: Becks
W-installation advisor: Immens
E-installation advisor: Omega
Cost calculation: Multical
Building Physics & Acoustics: PBTA
Lighting advisor: Robert Jan Vos
Graphic design: Ian Kirkpatrick with Maartje Berendsen
City: Sint-Michielsgestel
Country: The Netherlands